balance flow water pumps, what is the difference?

[GM Guy]

hey guys, I ran the PN from heaths article (the 88894035) at GM for a price, the number had been replaced by 19168609. price of 454.80 . Ouch. anyways, took the numbers, hit rock auto, and there is two pumps.

pump 1 description: ACDELCO Part # 251603 {#12456231, 19168609, 88894035} OE Design; Stamped Steel Impeller
PUMP KIT,WAT W/GSKT, PULLEY

pump 2 description: ACDELCO Part # 252776 {#88926290} Does Not Include Mount Bolts
PUMP KIT,WAT EXTENDED CAB; 2 WHEEL DRIVE; PRESSED-ON PULLEY FOR THREADED FAN CLUTCH
PUMP KIT,WAT CREW CAB; 2 WHEEL DRIVE; PRESSED-ON PULLEY FOR THREADED FAN CLUTCH
PUMP KIT,WAT REGULAR CAB; 2 WHEEL DRIVE; PRESSED-ON PULLEY FOR THREADED FAN CLUTCH

so the first one matches everything, so I will probably go with that, but is the second pump different? it is more than 50 bucks cheaper, that is why I ask. but the preferred 88894035/19168609 is still half of GM, so I will still be happy with it at that price if it is the better choice.


there were other brands, but I figured delco is what I should stick with.

any input appreciated, thanks!

 

[Brooklyn Tow]

The WP you want is from the year starting 2000.....(Don't know about the P/N change).......Also it's supposed to be used with a single stat setup, you can use it with a dual setup but your supposed to use a "restricter".......Just recently I "heard" the said restricter, is the same as a 6.2 X-over quick connect.....(But don't take what I say).....You can just as easily buy it from Heath

 

[GM Guy]

yes, those numbers were taken from rock auto's listing for a 2000 C3500 6.5L VIN F. 99 was confusing as 99.5 was the change to spin on (mine was built fairly early in 99, but it has the spin on? it must have been the model year, with late 98-early early 99 production being 4-bolt, As IIRC, mine is a april machine.) the 99 listing was clogged, so I just hopped up to 2000.

the WP, clutch, and 9 blade steel fan come out very cheap compared to any kit. I am fully aware heaths kit will out-do the OEM setup of wimpy clutch and 9-blade fan, but so far with the new radiator, this truck hasnt shown any signs of overheating with the low flow pump, shot clutch, and 6 blade fan, so I think the balanced pump, a working clutch, and a 9 blade fan will be far better than the current setup. I do think when I get going on the burb, it will get a heath kit, as one cant overcool an automatic truck IMO.

as far as the t-sats, I am going to stick with the single. I am not on the dual bandwagon. the one thing it has going for it is that it is doubtful both will stick. solution for that is to carry a spare for the single! I am really thinking of using a 96 housing on the 99 to get back to a single t-stat, but to look factory, as 96 was the only year of new accessory bracket compatible single t-stat housing. that makes you a lucky guy Louis! You had the awesome setup all along!