1961 oil pump overhead valve 6

[Dan Ward]

Regarding my 1957 champion 185 6 cylinder.

I have read that the oil pump off a 1961 overhead valve 6 cylinder will pump more pressure than the flathead pumps.

But to make it work, you have to use the cam drive gear off the flathead pump.

Note: I read this from an article about the "turbocharged" flathead--I think they ran this car at the salt flats

If this is so, now would be the easy time to change it, since I have the engine on the stand.

Anyone out there know if this is true? And if so, why this is so? Thanks again-----Dan

[irish]

Do not change your oil pump to the OHV 6 oil pump, it is designed to oil an overhead valve system, not a flathead. I've heard the stories about inadequate oil pressure with the flatheads, IIRC they seem to have started with the Dick Datson books. With that said the Champ 6 actually had several oil pump changes through the years, and the correct oil pump for your '57 is a higher volume pump than what was used on the original Champ engine. If you have inadequate oil pressure it's typically do to exessive bearing and tappet clearance.

Joe

[Dan Ward]

Thanks for the information Joe.

The engine is completely rebuilt so clearances should be good. I will test run the engine before I put it in the car, so I will check the pressures then. The pump I have is in good shape and well within spec. Regards Dan