I have CAV # 82 and need info and advise from other early CAV owners or any owners who may be having this issue or using this type of water pump. I'm replacing my 2nd Ford Racing Water Pump (WP) in less than 1000 miles. I'm using Ford Racing Part # M-8501-E351S. I have a Ford 302 motor stroked to 347 with webers. Its a V Belt application and my motor rotates in a clockwise direction. I believe the block is from the mid to late 70's. (It has the two piece rear main seal if that helps). The first WP failed after less than 1000 miles when the WP impellar came away from the shaft. The second WP began to leak after less than 500 miles so I pulled it again and found the circular metal piece that is tact welded to the impellar had come off and was swimming around inside the housing. It had left a 3-4" gash inside the housing from rotating inside the backing plate. I think the pressure caused one of the backing plate screws to seep water causing the leak. When I spoke to Ford they reported no issues from users of this pump but added and bascially admitted this pump is really not geared for this type of use. His words "Its made for Hot Rods who just "cruise" but don't run their cars fast. I purchased the part from Summit and they are going to replace the WP or give me a full refund. (A BIG TIME KUDOS TO THEM!!) (Summit told me Ford would not have warranteed the part.)
Its my understanding most of us are "cornered" into using short necked or shafted WP's and my research indicates this part might be my only option for a WP although I spoke to Stewart Waterpumps this a.m. and they are looking to see if they can help.
The GT40 communitiy is invaluable when needing input for this type of issue. Any help is appreciated. Am I the only person using this type of WP and having these failures?
My
Its my understanding most of us are "cornered" into using short necked or shafted WP's and my research indicates this part might be my only option for a WP although I spoke to Stewart Waterpumps this a.m. and they are looking to see if they can help.
The GT40 communitiy is invaluable when needing input for this type of issue. Any help is appreciated. Am I the only person using this type of WP and having these failures?
My