How do you test an oil pump on the bench?
Documented on the Chevrolet Small Block 350 (sbc 350) build
Published May 25, 2026
Mount the oil pump securely, attach the pickup into an oil reservoir, and drive the pump gear with a drill or suitable driver.
Full Answer
Mount the oil pump securely, attach the pickup into an oil reservoir, and drive the pump gear with a drill or suitable driver. Verify oil is drawn up the pickup and flows out of the pump outlet to confirm priming and flow.
Documented In This Build
Related Knowledge
What torque should I use on the crankshaft bolt?Should I replace the crankshaft seal when installing the balancer?What are signs of a bad harmonic balancer?How important is degreeing the cam?What torque sequence and values should I use for SBC heads?How do I set lifter preload or hydraulic lash?What should I do to prepare the engine for first start and break-in?What is the acceptable rod bearing clearance for a Small Block Chevy 350?
Related Parts
Harmonic balancer (damper)
$90
Oil pump (mechanical)
Melling (typical aftermarket)$120
Crankshaft key (Woodruff or rectangular key)
$5
Crankshaft bolt
$10
Front crankshaft seal
$15
Related Tools
Torque wrench
Harmonic balancer installer (press/driver style)
Socket set and breaker bar
Electric drill (for bench-priming oil pump)
Bench vise or pump test fixture
Oil catch container and hoses
Clean rags and assembly lube
Related Videos
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 6 | This Is How It's Actually Supposed To Be Done
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt.3 | Filing rings and checking main clearances
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt.5 | Continued frustrations with rod clearances
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 11 | Installing the intake manifold and figuring out sbc nuisances
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 7 | Checking Crank Clearance and installing the rods.
Small Block Chevy 350 Build Pt. 8 | Installing Camshaft and timing components