Q:

I’m rebuilding a Dodge 340 engine for street performance applications. How do I know if I need a high volume oil pump?

a Chrysler small block LA 340 cubic inch v8 engine
(Image/OnAllCylinders)

A:

A stock volume oil pump is perfectly adequate for most street performance engines turning less than 6,000 rpm with stock, or near-stock bearing clearances.

If you’re using remote oil filters, a remote oil cooler, bearing clearances for high-rpm operation, or any combination of these, you should consider using a high-volume oil pump. Check out Melling’s stock volume and high volume oil pumps.

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Author: Dave Matthews

Dave Matthews was a mechanic for the U.S. Army, a Ford dealership, and served for many years as a fleet mechanic for construction companies. Now a technical content producer at Summit Racing, Dave has spent decades working on everything from military vehicles to high performance race machines.