[GT182]

I received my pump from Cardone this past Friday. Before I left for the Home Show I had to set up for in Dover, I fitted the plates/pump on the timing cover.... twice. Found something interesting.

Using the repopped SS divider plates with the pump snugged up on the timing cover, the impeller hits the rear plate. Not by much but it still hits... you can feel and hear it.

Using the original divider plate with the keyway snugged up like before, the impeller doesn't hit.

The only thing I can think of and have discussed it with Ames and Cardone, is the SS plate is bending towards the pump when tightened. The keyway in the original is a relief so the plate doesn't bend.

I know it sounds strange but it's what's happening. I've contacted Cardone and they're looking into it. They'll probably change their setup so the gap is just a little more so you won't have to play with the rear SS divider plate and there'll still be no cavatation. This will make it easier for Ames Engineering too.... they won't have to cut a keyway in their plates.

When I hear more from Cardone I'll let you know what's going on. So keep an on what's happening.

One other thing.....

I talked with my friend at Pep Boys here in Bear, DE about the problem we've been having. Pep Boys only sells Bosch water pumps.... no other brands. He in turn contacted Bosch and relayed the problem to them to see if they'd take a look at their pumps. Bosch says no way, their pumps won't be changed no way no how. To them there is no problem and they make changes they want only when they think there's a need to. According to them we have no problem with their water pumps for our old Pontiacs. My recommendation.... stay away from Bosch pumps. If anyone has them and tries to sell you one, tell em to take a hike. And after that it's in my book.... a Cardone water pump is the only one I'll buy.