Engine Water Pump Guide for the 1967-1973 Chevrolet Camaro
Everything you need to know before buying a new aftermarket water pump for your classic Camaro.
- The most critical step is identifying if you need a 'short' (1967-68) or 'long' (1969-73) water pump before ordering.
- Since many engines have been swapped, physically check the pump on your car instead of just ordering by year.
- Symptoms of failure include coolant leaks from the front of the engine, overheating, and a whining noise.
- It is highly recommended to also replace the thermostat and hoses when you replace the water pump.
Is Your Camaro's Water Pump Failing?
A water pump failure can leave you stranded. Knowing the signs of a bad pump can help you fix the problem before it causes major engine damage. Look out for these common symptoms.
🎬 Watch: See these 5 symptoms of a bad water pumpKey Symptoms of a Failing Water Pump
- Coolant Leaks: The most common sign is a puddle of green or orange coolant under the front of your engine. Water pumps have a "weep hole" that allows a small amount of coolant to escape when the internal seals start to fail. This is a built-in warning sign.
- Overheating: If your temperature gauge starts climbing into the red, the water pump may not be circulating coolant effectively. This could be due to a worn-out internal impeller that can't move fluid anymore.
- Whining or Grinding Noise: A high-pitched whining sound from the front of the engine that changes with engine speed often points to a failing bearing inside the water pump.
- Wobbly Pulley: If you can wiggle the water pump pulley back and forth, the bearing is shot. This is a serious issue that needs immediate attention.
The Most Important Choice: Short vs. Long Water Pump
Before you buy any parts, you MUST figure out if your Camaro has a "short" or a "long" style water pump. This is the most common mistake owners make. Using the wrong one will cause your belts and pulleys to be misaligned.
- Short Water Pump: Factory correct for all 1967-1968 Camaros (both small-block and big-block engines).
- Long Water Pump: Factory correct for 1969-1973 Camaros with V8 engines.
How to Tell Which Pump You Have
Since many of these cars have had engine swaps over the last 50+ years, don't just trust the year of your car. The best way to know for sure is to check the pump that's on your engine right now.
- The Finger Test: With the engine off and cool, try to slide your fingers between the back of the water pump and the timing chain cover on the engine block. If there's a large gap (about 1.5 inches, enough to easily fit your fingers), you have a long pump. If the space is very tight (about 1 inch) and you can't get your fingers in there, you have a short pump.
- Measure It: If the pump is off the car, you can measure its height from the engine block mounting surface to the pulley mounting surface (hub).
- Small-Block Short Pump: ~5 5/8 inches.
- Small-Block Long Pump: ~7 inches.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brand
For a classic car like the Camaro, you won't find a "new OEM" water pump from Chevrolet. However, many aftermarket companies make quality replacements. They generally fall into a few tiers.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Replacement | GMB, Dayco, US Motor Works, Gates | These brands offer affordable, direct-fit replacements that meet original specifications. They are a good choice for daily drivers and stock restorations. While generally reliable, some forum users have reported mixed experiences with the longevity of some lower-cost brands. |
| OEM-Level Quality | ACDelco | ACDelco is a trusted GM partner. Their "Professional" line is a quality aftermarket part, though often made overseas. They are a popular and reliable choice for most owners. |
| High-Performance / Upgraded Cooling | Edelbrock, Weiand, Proform, Frostbite, PRW | These brands specialize in performance parts. Their water pumps are often made from lightweight aluminum and feature high-flow designs to improve cooling, which is great for modified engines or cars that see track time. They are the most expensive option but offer the best performance. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a high-flow water pump?
For a stock or mildly modified engine, a standard replacement pump is usually sufficient. A high-flow pump can be beneficial if you have a high-horsepower engine, live in a very hot climate, or have experienced overheating issues that other fixes couldn't solve. However, some users report that high-flow pumps can cause other issues, so a quality stock replacement is often the most reliable choice.
Should I replace my thermostat and hoses at the same time?
Yes, it's highly recommended. You have to drain the cooling system to replace the water pump, so it's the perfect time to replace the thermostat, radiator hoses, and heater hoses. These parts are inexpensive and wear out over time. Doing it all at once saves you from having to do a similar job again in the near future.
Cast iron or aluminum water pump?
Original pumps were cast iron. Aftermarket replacements are available in both cast iron and aluminum. Cast iron is heavier but very durable. Aluminum pumps are much lighter, which is a plus for performance, and they can dissipate heat slightly better. For most users, either material is fine, but performance-oriented builders often prefer aluminum.
Are there any recalls for the 1967-1973 Camaro water pump?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or common technical service bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the water pump on these vehicles.
Helpful Videos
![How To: Replace a Water Pump [Small-Block Chevy]](https://img.youtube.com/vi/6clYmNIWEe0/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 3859326 3782608 3931065 3969811 3876168 3929219 3947042 3890017
Primary specification is the length: 'Short' style for 1967-1968 V8 models and 'Long' style for 1969-1973 V8 models. Short small-block pumps measure approximately 5 5/8 inches from the block mounting surface to the hub, while long small-block pumps measure approximately 7 inches. Big block and 6-cylinder pumps have their own unique dimensions. Material can be cast iron (original) or aluminum (aftermarket performance).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.