A consistent and reliable oil supply is the lifeblood of any high-performance engine. Whether you’re pushing your build on the track or simply demanding peak efficiency from your daily driver, a subpar oil pump can be a single point of failure with catastrophic consequences. Upgrading to a performance-oriented unit is one of the most critical investments you can make for your engine’s longevity and power.
ACL has built a formidable reputation for manufacturing oil pumps that meet and exceed the demands of both professional racers and dedicated enthusiasts. This roundup focuses on their high-performance offerings, along with other trusted brands, designed to deliver unwavering oil pressure and volume. We have compiled a list of top-tier options to help you find the perfect pump for your specific engine and application, ensuring consistent performance mile after mile.
Top ACL and Performance Oil Pumps for Your Engine
- ACL/Orbit Racing Oil Pump for Honda Civic Acura Integra
- ACL/Orbit Racing Oil Pump for Subaru WRX STI EJ Series
- ACL OPHD1194HP High Performance Oil Pump for Honda
- ACL OPHD1040HP High Performance Oil Pump for Honda
- ACL/Orbit Racing Oil Pump for Honda Civic CRX D15 D16
- ACDelco Professional 12537336 Engine Oil Pump
- Melling M-55HV High Volume Oil Pump for Small Block Chevy
- Melling Select M-55 Standard Volume Oil Pump for SBC
ACL/Orbit Racing Performance Oil Pump compatible with Honda Civic Acura Integra B16 B18 B20
This performance oil pump is engineered specifically for the popular Honda and Acura B-series engines, including the B16, B17, B18, and B20. It is designed to provide a robust and consistent flow of oil, which is essential for maintaining engine health under high-stress conditions. For enthusiasts building or rebuilding a performance-oriented B-series motor, this pump is a direct-fit component that is in stock and ready to ship, minimizing downtime.
The pump is built to the high standards associated with the ACL and Orbit Racing brands, ensuring quality construction and reliable operation. It offers a significant upgrade over stock components, providing the increased oil pressure and volume needed to protect your engine’s bearings and other critical parts during aggressive driving or racing applications.
ACL/Orbit Racing Performance Oil Pump compatible with Subaru WRX STI EJ20 EJ22 EJ25 EJ257
Subaru’s EJ-series engines, powering iconic models like the WRX and STI, benefit greatly from a performance oil pump, especially when modified. This ACL/Orbit Racing pump, model OPSB1478HP, is made to fit a wide range of EJ engines, including the EJ20, EJ22, EJ25, and the high-performance EJ257. It is constructed to deliver superior oil flow and pressure, a critical factor for the turbocharged and often highly-strung boxer engines.
By ensuring a steady and ample supply of oil to the crankshaft, bearings, and AVCS system, this pump helps prevent oil starvation during hard cornering or high-RPM operation. It is a trusted component for anyone looking to build a reliable and powerful Subaru engine, providing peace of mind for both street and track use.
ACL OPHD1194HP High Performance Oil Pump for Honda
The ACL OPHD1194HP represents a significant step up in oil pump technology for compatible Honda engines. Its key feature is the use of a high-strength steel backing plate. This material upgrade provides a higher tensile strength compared to standard components, which directly improves rod bearing strength and retention within the assembly.
The increased “crush” design of this pump improves bearing retention by creating higher radial contact pressures. This not only keeps the assembly more secure but also enhances heat dissipation, a vital factor in maintaining consistent oil viscosity and pressure under thermal load. For builders seeking maximum durability and thermal management, this pump offers clear engineering advantages.
ACL OPHD1040HP High Performance Oil Pump for Honda
Designed with precision and durability in mind, the ACL OPHD1040HP is another high-performance option for specific Honda engine applications. It incorporates an innovative multi-layer structure that is engineered to provide superior protection for the internal components of your engine. This focus on robust construction translates to long-term reliability.
By choosing this pump, you are investing in a component that prioritizes the safety and integrity of your engine. It is built to maintain consistent oil pressure and flow, contributing to overall engine health and performance. Whether for a daily driver or a weekend project car, this pump is designed to offer dependable service.
ACL/Orbit Racing Performance Oil Pump compatible with Honda Civic CRX 1.5 1.6 D15 D16 1988-95
This performance oil pump is tailored for the classic Honda Civic and CRX models from 1988 to 1995, specifically those equipped with the D15 and D16 engines. For owners of these beloved vehicles, maintaining and upgrading the engine is key to preserving their performance and character. This ACL/Orbit Racing pump, model OPHD1040HP, is a direct-fit upgrade that enhances the engine’s oiling system.
It provides the improved flow and pressure necessary to support engine modifications or simply to ensure the long-term health of a high-mileage engine. Installing this performance pump can be a smart preventative measure and a performance enhancer, ensuring your D-series engine receives the oil it needs for consistent operation.
ACDelco Professional 12537336 Engine Oil Pump
ACDelco Professional components are known for meeting strict specifications for fit, form, and function. The 12537336 Engine Oil Pump is built to provide reliable performance for its intended application. As a professional-grade part, it is designed to be a durable replacement for a worn-out stock pump, restoring proper oil pressure and engine protection.
This pump is an excellent choice for those seeking a trustworthy OEM-level replacement without venturing into the high-performance market. It is engineered for daily driving reliability, making it a solid option for standard engine rebuilds or repairs where maintaining factory performance levels is the primary goal.
Melling M-55HV High Volume Oil Pump for Small Block Chevy
Melling is a legendary name in oil pumps, and the M-55HV is a cornerstone of Small Block Chevy builds. This is a high-volume pump, meaning it moves more oil per revolution than a standard unit. This is particularly beneficial for engines with increased bearing clearances, high-RPM operation, or those used in performance and racing applications where extra oil flow is necessary for cooling and lubrication.
The high-volume design helps ensure that adequate oil pressure is maintained throughout the engine’s operating range, even under demanding conditions. For any performance-oriented Small Block Chevy, from a street machine to a full-race engine, the Melling M-55HV is a proven and highly recommended component for superior oil system performance.
Melling Select M-55 Standard Volume Oil Pump for SBC
For Small Block Chevy engines that operate within standard parameters, the Melling Select M-55 standard volume oil pump is an ideal choice. This pump is engineered to restore factory-spec oil pressure and flow, making it perfect for stock rebuilds, engine repairs, and replacement in vehicles used for regular driving.
It provides all the reliable performance expected from the Melling brand without the additional flow of a high-volume pump, which can sometimes be unnecessary for a stock engine. If you are looking for a quality, dependable, and direct replacement for your original equipment oil pump, the Melling M-55 is a time-tested and trusted solution.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right ACL Oil Pump for Consistent Performance
When I’m building or rebuilding an engine, choosing the right oil pump isn’t a place to cut corners. It’s the heart of your engine’s lubrication system, and a failure here is catastrophic. ACL is a brand I trust, but even within their lineup, you need to pick the right one for your specific project and goals. Based on my experience, here’s what I focus on to ensure consistent performance from an ACL oil pump.
First, you need to decide between a standard replacement pump and a high-volume (HV) or high-pressure (HP) unit. This is the biggest fork in the road. A standard ACL pump is a direct OEM replacement, perfect for a stock engine rebuild or a daily driver. It’s designed to deliver the factory-specified pressure and volume, which is exactly what the engine was engineered for. If you aren’t changing anything major, this is the safe and smart choice.
Now, let’s talk about high-volume pumps. I consider these when I’ve added performance bearings that might have slightly larger clearances, or when I’m running a high-revving engine. The HV pump moves more oil per revolution, which can help maintain oil pressure in these situations, especially at lower RPMs. However, it’s not always the best answer. On a tight-clearance, stock-style engine, a HV pump can sometimes lead to excessive pressure, causing unnecessary strain on the pump drive and potentially aerating the oil.
High-pressure pumps are a different beast. They use a stiffer pressure relief spring to achieve a higher maximum oil pressure. I typically only use these in very specific racing applications where extreme loads are a constant factor. For most street performance builds, a standard or HV pump is more than adequate.
Next, pay close attention to the fit. ACL pumps are made for specific engine families. You can’t just grab one for a Chevy LS and expect it to fit a Honda K-series. Know your engine code and block type. Some engines, like certain RB series from Nissan, have different oil pump drives (crank vs. distributor), so you must get the correct version. I always double-check the product listing against my engine’s specifications before ordering.
Finally, think about the condition of the rest of your system. A brand new, high-performance ACL oil pump can’t do its job if it’s pulling through a clogged pickup tube or pushing oil through worn galleries. Whenever I install a new pump, I always clean or replace the oil pickup and ensure the block’s oil passages are spotless. It’s a system, and every part needs to be in good shape for that consistent performance we’re all after. Making the right choice here is a key step in a successful engine build.
FAQ
What is the main difference between a standard and a high-volume ACL oil pump?
The main difference is in the gear design. A standard pump has gears that are the same size as the original equipment part. A high-volume (HV) pump has longer or wider gears, which allows it to move a greater volume of oil with each revolution. I use a standard pump for stock rebuilds and a HV pump when engine bearing clearances are larger, or for high-RPM applications where I need to ensure the bottom end is always getting plenty of oil.
Do I need to prime a new ACL oil pump before starting the engine?
Yes, absolutely. This is a critical step I never skip. A dry start can instantly damage the new pump and your engine bearings. I pack the pump gears with assembly lube or petroleum jelly and then use a priming tool on a drill to spin the pump and circulate oil throughout the entire engine until I see stable oil pressure on a gauge. This ensures everything is lubricated the moment the engine fires.
Can I use an ACL race series pump on my daily driver?
You can, but it might be overkill. The race series pumps are built for ultimate strength and reliability under extreme conditions, often with billet gears and housings. For a daily driver, a standard or HV pump from ACL’s main line is more than sufficient and will be more cost-effective. The race pump is over-engineering for a street car, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but your money might be better spent elsewhere in the build.
My ACL pump didn’t come with a pressure relief spring. Is this normal?
Sometimes, yes. Many ACL oil pumps are sold as the pump body and gears only, assuming you will transfer over the clean, undamaged spring and piston from your old pump. Always check the product description before you order. If it’s not included, you must inspect your old spring for fatigue and ensure the piston moves freely in its bore. For high-performance builds, I often buy a new, specific-pressure spring separately.
How important is it to replace the oil pump drive collar and sleeve?
It’s very important, and it’s a step I see people forget. The drive collar and sleeve (or spindle) experience wear along with the pump itself. If you install a brand new pump with a worn-out drive, you risk damaging the new pump’s internals or having it fail to engage properly. Whenever I install a new pump, I install a new drive collar and sleeve as a set for a complete and reliable repair. This is a key part of ensuring your 8 Best ACL Oil Pump Review for Consistent Performance search leads to a long-lasting result.
Should I check the clearances on a new ACL pump before installing it?
It’s a very good practice. While ACL has excellent quality control, I always perform a quick check of the gear-to-body clearance and the side clearance with a feeler gauge. It only takes a few minutes and gives me complete peace of mind that the pump is within specification before it goes into the engine. This is part of a thorough build process that catches potential issues before they become expensive problems.