Topic: 289 oil pump screened pickup with dimples?

[CharlesTurner]

I am used to seeing the oil pump pickup with a smooth top.  Has anyone seen a version with dimples on the top?  It seems that would inhibit the volume?


There was one of these on 5S003 when I pulled the motor apart and replaced it with what I considered a normal one without the dimples.

[Bob Gaines]

I am used to seeing the oil pump pickup with a smooth top.  Has anyone seen a version with dimples on the top?  It seems that would inhibit the volume?


There was one of these on 5S003 when I pulled the motor apart and replaced it with what I considered a normal one without the dimples.

I have seen them frequently over the years. Don't ask me what the dimples help with . Randy Gillis may have some insight.

[sgl66]

That looks like a run of the mill Melling 68-S pickup. The dimples are probably there to help prevent the screen from being sucked up against the housing if it gets clogged with contaminants causing even more reduced oil flow.

[RoyceP]

Agree it is typical of aftermarket oil pump intakes made by several companies. The dimples reduce the likelihood of pump cavitation by reducing the capacity of the bell while stiffening the intake. It's probably a better design than Ford used. I believe Ford copied this design for the 289 by 1967 or so.

[J_Speegle]

Have found them on allot of examples. Dimples likely help support the screen though reducing flow only very slightly

Never paid attention to what years the engines were with the dimples or without. Not certain that Ford did not farm out the making of these parts as they did others

[CharlesTurner]

Thanks for the replies!