Water pumps have been underrated for the longest period of time. They play a major role in keeping your car's engine cool so that it can run smoothly.
In essence, the best SBC water pumps can safely radiate the heat build-up in the engine by pumping coolant inside it. This prevents your car from overheating and extends the service life of your engine.
With the numerous options available in the market, picking out the right water pump for your car can prove to be quite confusing. And so, we have taken the liberty to list down some of our top picks to aid your decision-making process.
A water pump is one of the most crucial components of a vehicle. It pumps the coolant from your car's engine to the radiator. The pump also eliminates the engine's heat. The majority of car owners leave their vehicles at the mercy of their mechanics, who install car components without consulting with them.
Best Water Pump For SBC Comparison
Name | Image | Editors Reviews | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Proform 66225BK |   | ||
Chevy Small Block Water Pump |   | ||
Proform 66225B |   | ||
Proform 66225R |   | ||
Powermaster 9612 |   |
What is an SBC water pump, and why is it necessary?
Small Block Chevy pump is a vehicle component that helps in cooling the engine's heat. The pump controls the temperature and relieves pressure allowing the vehicle to move smoothly. A right water pump ensures you have a smooth drive.
Top 5 Best SBC Water Pumps Reviews 2023
1. Proform 66225BK - Best Electric Water Pump
Preform electric water pumps are famous for removing excessive weights, and the impeller-induced drag felt with mechanical pumps at elevated rpm.
The electric water pump pumps water up to 35 plus gallons per minute. It is made from top-quality die-cast aluminum that ensures durability. It fits small block chevy engines perfectly.
The pump has an epoxy powder coat finish that ensures corrosion resistance and durability of the pump.
At 12 volts, it has a flow rate and a pump flow of 35 GPM that ensures water is adequately supplied to the radiator for cooling. It weighs 6lbs, which reduces weight and increases its functionality.
The electric pump includes a Billet 1.0 inch NPT to 1 ¾ inch hose fitting and features a standard rotation. The pumps come with gaskets, mounting hardware, and fittings that allow for the pumps' easy installation. The pump draws 5 amp, thus ensuring a smooth flow of water.
The electric pumps can be purchased with a Heavy Duty 10-18ga wiring kit that delivers a consistent supply of voltage hindering drop off associated with OE wire, providing the unit protection from damage. The wiring kit features a circuit breaker, 48 inch of wire, 40/30amp relay, assorted connectors, and terminals.
Pros
Cons
The Proform 66225BK Water Pump is one of the top recommended SBC water pumps that guarantees you value for your money. With different color options and easy installation guidance, it is undoubtedly worth your consideration.
2. Chevy Small Block Electric Water Pump 35 GPM
Electric water pumps from CVF racing are CNC machined from 6061 aluminum to save horsepower and lower weight. The electric water pumps free up to five to ten horsepower against a mechanical water pump.
These pumps are compatible with small block chevy 283, 327, 350, 400 engines. The pump comes with an accessory bracket that allows for free installation.
The chevy electric water pumps are made with 6061 Billet Aluminum material that ensures durability and a wear-free experience. At 12 volts, it has a flow rate of 35 GPM.
The pump comes with gaskets, a 12-inch connector wire, and mounting hardware that help the installation become smoother. It includes a 1 ¾ inch inlet fitting and a 7.1-inch overall depth for efficiency. Moreover, the inlet hose can be mounted both on the left and right sides.
The electric water pump weighs 9 pounds due to the 6061 aluminum weight reduction, allowing for easy installation and handling. It draws just 5.5 amp. Its components are made with top-quality materials that guarantee you a smooth and safe drive.
Pros
Cons
Overall, this is a worthy chevy small block electric water pump from CVF Racing. It is efficient and, best of all, is incredibly priced.
3. Proform 66225B Electric Water Pump
The Proform 66225B Electric Water Pump is almost similar to the Proform 66225BK water pump. Proform manufactures electric water pumps that remove unrequired weight, and impeller drag felt at high RPM.
The pumps can pump up to 35 plus water gallons per minute and provide an effective cooling that can help you win a race.
The Proform 66225B pump is made from die-cast aluminum that makes the pump light and ultimately durable.
The pump's motor has a black finish while the body has a blue finish that is well polished for an attractive and straightforward look. It is epoxy coated to prevent and resist corrosion. It is available with a mating weather-tight connector.
The electric water pump comes with a Billet 1.0 inch NPT to 1 ¾ inch hose fitting. It draws 6 amp and weighs 5.85 pounds, and is six-inch in length.
It has a standard rotation for an easy cooling process. At 12 volts, its flow rate is 35 GPM. The electric pump is vehicle specific and fits Chevy small block Gen 1.
Pros
Cons
This electric water pump is carefully designed to enhance your vehicle's performance. It is reliable, lasts long, and is worth your money.
4. Proform 66225R Red Powdercoated Electric Water Pump
Proform electric water pumps are designed to remove unrequired weights, and the impeller-induced drag is felt with mechanical pumps at elevated rpm.
The pump is made from aluminum for a strong and durable lifespan. It cranks out up to 35 GPM. It also provides a cooling that makes for easy and successful racing.
The die-cast aluminum and epoxy-coated surface resists pump corrosion and makes the pump feel as light as possible.
The lightweight feature makes your vehicle perfect for street and track driving. It comes with a Billet 1.0 inch NPT to 1 ¾ inch hose fitting.
The pump draws 5.0 amp, and at 12 volts, it has a flow rate of 35 GPM. It weighs 6 lbs. and measures 6.5 inches in overall depth.
The pump is vehicle-specific, which makes it hard for buyers to shop for universal pumps. Its pump motor has a black finish, and the body has a red powder-coat finish that is appealing to drivers.
Pros
Cons
As one of the products from Proform, this water pump does not disappoint when it comes to service delivery. The aluminum material ensures durability, and the flow rate makes for an efficient pumping flow. It is the right pump and a good investment generally.
5. Powermaster 9612 Mastertorque Starter
The Powermaster 9612 Mastertorque Starter electric water pump is one of the great Powermaster products in the motor industry.
The water pump has gear-reduction drives, and its starters pump out the power-180 ft.-lbs of torque. They can manage engines with compression ratios of up to 14:1, making pumping easy and efficient.
It has a standard rotation that ensures the pump works effectively.
It is made of Billet aluminum material that ensures durability and lightweight. The pumps come with shims and starter bolts for easier installation. The electric water pump has an adjustable mounting block and lacks heat soak challenges.
Some can be mounted in various orientations, while others will function inverted, having the solenoid down. The starter features a long-lasting black wrinkle finish while some may be available in chrome-plated finishes, which is an attractive feature for the discerning car owner.
The light high-torque gear lowering starters clears all oil pans and headers where original head starters fail. It has a 3.25:1 gear reduction ratio and is recommended for 12:1 compression.
It has a standard gear rotation to pump water continuously when required to do so. The exterior of the starter is machined.
It is lightweight, weighing just about 11 pounds, close to standard weight for an SBC water pump. The water pump fits chevy applications.
This electric water pump features an InfiCLOCK Design for complete 360° Rotation for full adjustability. The Powermaster starters are available with the Dyno-tested Proof of Performance.
Pros
Cons
The Powermaster 9612 Mastertorque Starter is one of the best electric water pumps recommended for cars. It is technical and effective in its operation. Apart from it being vehicle-specific, it is a great pump and worth your hard-earned money.
Types of water pumps
There are both a centrifugal pump and positive displacement pump. A centrifugal pump works with the rotating impeller to pressurize discharge flow and pump water. Positive displacement pumps deliver a fixed level of flow.
Older vehicle models majorly used an air cooling system. However, modern cars offer a liquid cooling system. In this system, the centrifugal pumps function to circulate the water for cooling.
What to Consider When Choosing and Purchasing an Electric Water Pump
Choosing an SBC electric water pump is one of the most challenging jobs when maintaining a vehicle. There are many different water pump products in the market.
The water pumps recommended above have been chosen after careful consideration of important factors. Some of the things to consider before purchasing an electric water pump include;
Bearing
You should ensure the bearings of the water pump you are purchasing are of good quality. In case of a problem in the bearing, the pump may develop a leak. A malfunctioning bearing in the water pump is easy to notice from the unusual sounds it produces.
Therefore, consider checking the bearing with the manufacturers to ensure you are getting a quality product.
Material of Pump
A strong and durable water pump serves its purpose as long as it is built with the right materials. The pumps recommended above are mostly made from aluminum, which ensures the durability of the product. A less-quality material on a water pump which exposes it to wear and tear.
Weep Holes
The majority of water pumps have to weep holes, which are meant for various functions. When choosing your electric water pump, ensure no leak at the bottom of the weep holes. This could lead to a malfunction of the water pump.
Vehicle Compatibility
A perfect fit for your vehicle is vital to ensure your vehicle’s cooling system does not break down. Much like a fuel pump, there are different types of SBC pumps that are not compatible with every vehicle.
Value for Money
An excellent electric water pump should provide the solutions you are seeking at a reasonable price. A costly water pump does not always guarantee top performance. Likewise, an under-priced cheap water pump does not mean the pump will be of low quality.
Therefore, before you make that purchase, you should do a personal search and check for reviewed and recommended pumps for an informed choice that will ultimately prove to be value for your cash.
Ease of use
The ease of use of your water pump is an essential factor to consider when purchasing an SBC water pump. It is especially so if you are planning on installing the pump on your own.
A water pump that is easy to use is easy to install, maintain, and, if possible, repair. Therefore, you should check if the product comes with an easy-to-follow manual that helps in installation and troubleshooting.
Noise Level
A well-functioning water pump functions smoothly and efficiently and should not make any unusual noises. A noisy water pump is a sign of a malfunctioning device. Before you buy the water pump, confirm to ensure it pumps as silently and smoothly as you would expect.
Warranty
When purchasing an electric water pump for your vehicle, it is also vital to check if the product has a warranty. If it does, then in the event of a mechanical breakdown, repair and replacement options are available to you at no cost.
Who Needs Electric Water Pumps and Why?
Electric water pumps are relevant for every driver and car owner for various reasons. If your vehicle gets overheated and exhausted easily, a new electric water pump is essential to cool down the car. An overheated engine can cause a breakdown or even severe accidents while driving.
The recommended water pumps above are also best for buyers looking for top-quality water pumps at reasonably affordable prices.
Therefore, if you are a buyer searching for good deals, a recommended water pump is a good option. You may save up to hundreds of dollars by taking a good quality deal.
Electric water pumps are also suitable for drivers who previously drove cars with traditional air cooling systems and are looking to test their vehicles' liquid cooling systems.
The electric water pumps offer the liquid cooling system solution and are a good change since air cooling can be inefficient to some extent.
FAQs about Electric Water Pumps
Q: What is an SBC Water Pump, and how does it work?
A: A short block chevy water pump is a device used to navigate fluid. It controls water flow in the engine, allowing for a cooling system that ensures the vehicle's smooth functioning.
Q: What is the importance of an electric water pump?
A: An electric water pump serves as the vehicle's cooling system, as previously established. It also acts as a fire safety system. A water pump ensures the consistent and constant flow of water in case of a fire emergency.
It does so by pumping water to areas where normal pressure does not supply water. An electric water pump also regulates pressure by pumping water to places where it does not reach using normal pressure and flow.
Q: How do I ensure I purchase a quality SBC water pump?
A: Before you purchase any water pump, do extensive research into the company and product you intend on buying. If it matches your requirements and specifications, it is likely the quality water pump you are seeking.
Q: What is the difference between an SBC short water pump and an SBC long water pump?
A: The mounting surface establishes the main difference between a small block chevy long and short water pump to the hub surface's height. The SBC short water pump is shorter than the SBC long water pump.
Bottom Line
Being able to choose the best SBC water pump for your car can greatly improve your car's health. Keep a close eye on the pump's model, so you know whether it is compatible with your vehicle.
We don't usually pick out favorites, but the Proform 66225BK water pump catches our eye the most in terms of efficiency and value for money.
In any case, this article should give you a brief overview of all the things you need to know before grabbing a pump for yourself.