5 Best LS Oil Pump Reviews 2019: Expert Guide

If there is an oil pump that lives up to its reputation, it has to be the Melling M295 Oil Pump. This replacement oil pump is ideal for all types of engines, including GM LS GEN III, IV, and Vortec combustion engines. The pump is also compatible with factory GM oil pickup tubes.

In terms of performance, the Melling M295 Oil Pump has a factory volumetric flow rate estimated at around 6.8 GPM. It also comes with a 20-PSI pressure relief valve spring that controls oil pressure when accelerating. What is more amazing is that the pump is resistant against cavitations above 6,200 rotations per minute. This means that you can enjoy advanced engine performance without worrying about oil starvation or drops in oil pressure.

As if that is not enough, the Melling M295 comes in cast aluminum, hard coat anodized housing for enhanced durability and resilience. Moreover, the cover features countersunk screws for more clearance and enhanced cooling, making it perfect for everyday driving.

The best part is that the Melling M295 is extremely affordable, subsequently offering excellent value for money.

The Melling M295HV is an upgrade of the M295. Unlike its predecessor, this replacement oil pump can handle high volume and pressure at higher rotations per minute. Amazingly, the pump is compatible with nearly all types of vehicle engines ranging from Gen III LS to Gen IV Vortec. Moreover, the M295HV is pressure tested and hand-tuned to ensure that only the highest quality pumps leave the factory for shipping.

As far as performance is concerned, this oil pump from Melling consists of highly resilient gears machined to close tolerances for efficient pump operation and proper engine pressure. In addition, the pump features a 43-PSI pressure relief valve spring for enhanced performance in high pressure.

In terms of durability, the M295HV is renowned for its sturdiness. The pump features a cast aluminum housing and a cast iron cover for an extended lifespan. In addition, all its components consist of high-quality materials with internal parts manufactured from sintered steel for maximum wear resistance. The pump also comes with precision ground end plates to provide the highest level of performance even under tough conditions.

The Melling 10269 is yet another high volume, high-pressure oil pump designed for engines without Active Fuel Management or Displacement of Demand. The pump is widely considered an upgrade of the M295 as it offers an 18% increase in volume, making it the perfect choice for engines that have increased bearing clearances.

Notably, engine experts recommend the Melling 10269 pump for use with a single roller timing chain. This is because a double roller timing chain might require timing cover modification for optimum performance.

Additionally, this Melling oil pump has a maximum volumetric flow rate of 8.0 GPM. This is comparatively 10% more than the factory volumetric rate that is around 6.8 GPM. The high rate means the pump can handle high pressure while ensuring the performance of the engine remains stable.

Similarly, this pump has a 43-PSI pressure relief valve spring just like the M295HV. This valve features a screw in valve plug that comes with an optional lower stock pressure spring. The pump is also well suited for factory GM oil pickup tubes.

If your oil pump is sucking up air frequently, consequently causing oil starvation, then you need to acquire a girdle. Apparently, LS engines usually come with one bolt that attaches the pickup tube to the oil pump. However, this bolt may not be sufficient for attaching the tube properly. This may consequently cause sealing issues, leading to cavitations or oil starvation. With this in mind, it is only logical that you acquire a girdle support.

The ICT Billet LS 551910 is an oil pump pickup hold down girdle that offers the perfect support for LS engines. The girdle works by eliminating uneven clamp loads and minimizes sealing issues, eventually preventing oil starvation. Moreover, it comes with one bracket and 2 bolts to ensure maximum support. The best part is that the girdle bracket fits all LS engines, making it a must-have for all vehicle models within the series.

What is more amazing is that this pickup girdle support is exceptionally affordable. The only downside is that installing the bracket might be a little bit tricky. However, once installed, the girdle works perfectly, making up for the tedious assembly process.

Whether you are building a new engine or modifying an existing one, it is imperative that you choose the right oil pump to guarantee optimum performance of the engine. However, with so many options out there, picking the ideal pump might prove to be a challenge. Thankfully, we are here to help. After serious deliberations, we recommend the Melling M295 as the perfect oil pump for all LS engines.