1981 Chevrolet Malibu Performance Engines

Essential 1981 Chevrolet Malibu Performance Engines

Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

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$26.99
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 180 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET (Part No.2912)

PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET

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$36.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fluoroelastomer compound combines optimum resistance to heat, oils and abrasion for longivity.
  • Optimizes performance under high crankcase vacuum conditions, elevated temperatures and high RPM levels.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Edelbrock – XX Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Port Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam Polished (Part No.604919)

XX Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Port Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam Polished

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$1084.99
The Edelbrock #604919 Performer Bare High Compression Cylinder Heads are designed for Big-Block Chevy Oval Port V8 applications. These Edelbrock Performer Series Cylinder heads are 50-state street legal and provide outstanding performance from Idle-5,500

Product Features:
  • High Compression
  • 100cc Combustion Chamber Volume
  • 290cc Intake/110cc Exhaust Runner Volume
  • 2.19 in. Intake/1.88 in. Exhaust Valve Diameter
  • 0.562 in. Deck Thickness
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Manifold Bolt Set – Chevrolet Small Block – Socket Head 3/8"-16 X 1" Bolts & Washers (Part No.956G)

Intake Manifold Bolt Set - Chevrolet Small Block - Socket Head 3/8"-16 X 1" Bolts & Washers

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$17.49
These grade 5 hex head bolts are brite zinc plated for protection and appearance. Hardened flat washers provide uniform torque & prevent galling on aluminum manifolds. Includes twelve (12) 3/8 inch-16 x 1 inch bolts & washers

Product Features:
  • Zinc plated to resist corrosion and provide a clean professional appearance
  • Made from Grade 5 steel for strength and durability
  • Flat washers provide uniform clamp load and prevent galling on aluminum intake manifolds
  • Allen (socket) Head
  • Zinc Plated For Protection
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Edelbrock – Torker-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-1986 Small-Block Chevy 283-400 V8 (Part No.5002)

Torker-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-1986 Small-Block Chevy 283-400 V8

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$411.99
Edelbrock camshafts are matched to Edelbrock Total Power Package components for proven performance, taking the guesswork out of camshaft selection. They are compatible with OEM or Edelbrock hydraulic roller tappets which reduce friction, virtually eliminate break-in problems, and permit higher valve velocities for increased performance. Designed to work with Torker II manifolds for performance from 2500 to 6500 RPM, these camshafts are ideal for high-performance street, drag or marine applications. Torker-Plus cams have a slightly rough idle and are not suitable for trucks or towing applications. Hydraulic flat tappet lifters are included with each camshaft.

Product Features:
  • Designed for 2500 to 6500 Performance
  • Designed for Hi-Perf Street; Drag or Marine Use
  • Matched to Edelbrock Torker II Intakes
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Dyno Matched/Street Proven Performance
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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Edelbrock – Small Block Chevy Street Tunnel Ram Polished (Part No.71101)

Small Block Chevy Street Tunnel Ram Polished

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$1268.99
For 3500 to 7500 PRM. Use where low-end torque is not a prime factor. Great for engines with slightly modified heads. HEI ignition will not clear manifold. Street machines, street rods, pro-street and marine.

Product Features:
  • Street Tunnel Ram; Intake Manifold Top
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-86 Small-Block Chevrolet (Part No.2103)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-86 Small-Block Chevrolet

from

$334.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched to Edelbrock Performer Intakes
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Major Improvement in Throttle Response and Torque
  • Use For Daily Drivers/Trucks/Vans/RVs/4x4s
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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B & M – Tork Master 3000 (Part No.20402)

Tork Master 3000

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$499.99
Torque Converter – Tork Master 3000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) APPLICATION: Tork Master 3000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) The Tork Master is B&M’s lowest cost performance torque converter. The Tork Master is an excellent all-around performance street converter. The best ‘value priced’ street converters available, Tork Master converters come with a new precision pump drive tube and all are pressure tested and fully balanced. The Tork Master torque converter is not recommended for big block or supercharged applications. New allow steel pump drive tube. Needle thrust bearing when factory equipped. New thrust washer between turbine and cover when required.

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
  • Washer Between Turbine and Cover
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET (Part No.1602)

PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET

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$23.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Die cut silicone rubber gaskets conform to out-of-flat covers
  • Great for on-again/off-again situations
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Sure-Lock Rocker Arm Nuts (Part No.923G)

Ultra Seal: Sure-Lock Rocker Arm Nuts

from

$87.19
Designed to keep the rocker arms positively locked for precise and critical valve train adjustments. Manufactured from quality grade steel, then heat-treated for extra strength and plated with a durable finish. Kits include 16 rocker arm nuts with socket head set screws and one hex key wrench.

Product Features:
  • (16) Rocker Arm Nuts w/ Locks 3/8″-24 Threads
  • Shank O.D. .540″
  • Includes Locks and Hex Wrench
  • High-Quality Grade Steel
  • Heat-Treated For Ex Strength
  • Plated With Durable Gold Tone Finish
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Competition Cams – Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam (Part No.11-600-4)

Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Flat Cam

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$542.99
HYDRAULIC – Thumpr: High performance street, stock converter ok, best with 2000+ converter and gears. Choppy/thumping idle.

Product Features:
  • HYDRAULIC – Thumpr: High performance street, stock converter ok, best with 2000+ converter and gears. Choppy/thumping idle.
  • 279/296 Advertised Duration, 227/241 Duration @ .050″, .498″/.483″ Lift, 107 Lobe Separation
  • Valve spring upgrade required
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Mr. Gasket – Head Gasket (Part No.1130G)

Head Gasket

from

$32.99
Mr. Gasket Steel Shim Cylinder Head Gaskets are for high performance street machines, drag racing and oval track racing. With today’s extreme compression ratios you need stronger more durable gaskets. Mr. Gasket steel shim gaskets are made from .020 inch steel shim stock which is thinner than most composite gaskets increasing engine compression. Stress formed embossments will seal the extreme cylinder pressure.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from .020″ steel shim stock.
  • Thinner than composition head gaskets – increases engine compression.
  • Stress formed embossments seal extreme cylinder pressures.
  • For high performance street, drag race and oval track use.
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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9629)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

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$187.99


Product Features:
  • Case-Hardened Tubing
  • Surface Hardening
  • Welded Ends
  • 0.3125 in. Diameter
  • Use with or without Hardened Steel Guideplates
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Mr. Gasket – Cylinder Head Dowel Pins (Part No.4375)

Cylinder Head Dowel Pins

from

$14.99
Dowel pins are precision machined and case hardened for accurate head alignment. Two per set. 5/16 inch x 5/8 inch

Product Features:
  • Precision Machined
  • Case Hardened
  • Give Accurate Alignment
  • 2 Per Set
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Edelbrock – Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242 (Part No.4243)

Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242

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$41.99
Product Features:
  • Replacement Gasket Set For PN[4242]
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Edelbrock – Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 262-400 V8 1957-95 (Part No.5894)

Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 262-400 V8 1957-95

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$147.99
Complete kit includes retainers and locks. Springs made of highest quality spring wire. Springs precision wound to close tolerances. Includes superior quality steel retainers. Includes 7 degree heat-treated valve stem locks. Retainers and locks are black oxide coated. Non-rotator style: Dyno tested and street proven. Great match to Edelbrock camshaft kit.

Product Features:
  • Complete Kit: Includes Retainers And Locks
  • Springs Made of Highest Quality Spring Wire
  • Springs Precision Wound To Close Tolerances
  • Includes Superior Quality Steel Retainers
  • Includes 7 deg. Heat-Treated Valve Stem Locks
  • Retainers and Locks Black Oxide Coated
  • Dyno Tested And Street Proven
  • Great Match to Edelbrock Camshaft Kit
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Mr. Gasket – Water Neck (Part No.9141G)

Water Neck

from

$58.99
Chrome water neck with a swivel top allows you to place your coolant hose where you want it to be, not just where the neck allows. Precision die cast for better fitment, these water necks are first polished to a high luster, then chrome plated. Features an O-ring style seal to prevent water leaks. Comes with O-ring gasket and mounting bolts.

Product Features:
  • Chrome Plated Aluminum
  • O-ring To Prevent Leaks
  • Swivels For Hard To Fit Applications
  • Comes With Allen Head Bolts
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Spectre – Water Neck; Chevy Late Model (Part No.4730)

Water Neck; Chevy Late Model

from

$23.79
Spectre’s Chevrolet late model water neck offers the normal angled water neck and a 1/2 inch NPT threaded hole for a by-pass hose. This water neck has a chrome plated finish for a lasting look great and includes the bolts.

Product Features:
  • Fits Chevy engines
  • Includes a 1/2 inch NPT threaded hole for by-pass hose
  • Includes bolts
  • Chrome plated
  • Easy to install
  • O-ring/gasket not included
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Edelbrock – Intake Manifold Gasket for 1965-1990, Oval port 396-402-454 B/B Chevy (Part No.7203)

Intake Manifold Gasket for 1965-1990, Oval port 396-402-454 B/B Chevy

from

$32.99
Product Features:
  • Clean Positive Seal
  • Embossed Silicone Bead Surrounding The Port
  • Matched To Manifolds And Cylinder Heads
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.100)

Intake Gasket

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$36.49
Mr. Gasket Performance Series intake gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. They provide excellent sealing and durability. Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Die-cut for an excellent fit
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications
  • Complete with manifold end seals & distributor gaskets if applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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Edelbrock – Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Standard/Long in Polished Finish (Part No.8861)

Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Standard/Long in Polished Finish

from

$475.99
Maximum cooling for street and racing engines. Internal passages are balanced for maximum flow. Impeller is larger than others for maximum pressure. Impeller vanes dramatically increase flow rates. Equal distribution to both sides of block. Only flows in one direction for optimum efficiency. In the early days of the automotive performance industry, you either ran what was available, or you fabricated something you thought met your needs. Such needs were the building blocks of this industry, and it was through the efforts of many that we have the automotive aftermarket, but it was through the work of one name in particular to which many in the industry owe a great debt, and that name is Edelbrock.

Product Features:
  • Maximum Cooling for Street and Racing Engines
  • Internal Passages Are Balanced for Maximum Flow
  • Impeller is Larger than Others For Max Pressure
  • Impeller Vanes Dramatically Increase Flow Rates
  • Equal Distribution to Both Sides of Block
  • Only Flows in One-Direction for Optimum Efficiency
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Edelbrock – Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Standard/Long in Satin Finish (Part No.8851)

Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Standard/Long in Satin Finish

from

$381.99
Product Features:
  • Standard Impeller Rotation
  • 0.625 in. Pilot Shaft
  • 0.750 in. Ball/Ball Bearing
  • 7.3125 in. Block To Hub Height
  • Satin Finish
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Mr. Gasket – Advance And Retard Cam Bushings (Part No.85)

Advance And Retard Cam Bushings

from

$42.49
With Mr. Gasket cam degree bushings you fine tune the camshaft timing of your engine to as little as 1 degree. Even aftermarket timing sets with multiple keyways can’t give the range of adjustment these bushings allow. Retard your camshaft to lower the powerband for more low end torque and midrange horsepower, or advance for more top end power. This kit does even number adjustment 0-8 degrees.

Product Features:
  • Advance the cam for increased torque and horsepower
  • Tune your powerband for more end torque or increase top end horsepower
  • Includes (4) offset bushings and (1) 0 degree bushing
  • Cam sprocket dowel pin hole must be drilled to .406¿ (13/32¿) dia.
  • Cam sprocket dowel pin hole must be drilled to .406┐ (13/32┐) dia.
  • Increase Top-End Horsepower
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Edelbrock – TIMING CHAIN (Part No.7844)

TIMING CHAIN

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$29.99
Product Features:
  • Timing Chain Only
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Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9730)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

from

$99.99
Product Features:
  • Use W/ Valve Springs Part #5703, 5794
  • Set of 16
  • 1.50 in. Outside Diameter
  • Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
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Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9721)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

from

$95.99
Valve spring retainers for use OE cast iron heads. Superior quality heat-treated steel. Machined for strength with black oxide finish. Finish ensures rust and corrosion protection.

Product Features:
  • Valve Spring Retainers for Use OE Cast Iron Heads
  • Superior Quality Heat-Treated Steel
  • Machined for Strength with Black Oxide Finish
  • Finish Ensures Rust and Corrosion Protection
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Mr. Gasket – Oil Pan Gasket (Part No.196)

Oil Pan Gasket

from

$30.19
Mr. Gasket Performance Oil Pan Gaskets are manufactured from a high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material to provide excellent sealing and durability. Comes complete with molded rubber front/rear oil pan seals. For original equipment replacement and high performance street use.brbrFits Chevrolet 265,283,302,307,327,350,400 Gen I Small Block.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Complete with molded rubber front/rear oil pan end seals where applicable
  • For OE replacement and high performance street use
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FEL-PRO Performance – Oil Pan Gasket Set: High-Temperature Rubber-Coated Fiber, 5 Piece Set (Part No.1802)

Oil Pan Gasket Set: High-Temperature Rubber-Coated Fiber, 5 Piece Set

from

$25.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Felcoid/Plus gaskets have a fiber sheet core and a latex rubber coating to eliminate potential leakage paths. The core material resists crushing and splitting, while providing excellent blowout resistance.
  • With steel core to provide ultimate excellent blowout resistance.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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1981 Chevrolet Malibu Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 Chevrolet Malibu. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 90 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $14.99 to $1,268.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 Chevrolet Malibu running smoothly.

Performance Engines are only as good as their brand. We stock 8 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu. Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, and FEL-PRO Performance are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Performance Engines for your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 252 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Action Plus Water Pumps with 3.7 stars and PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET with 1.0 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Performance Engines to keep your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Performance Engines Brands To Make Your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Performance Engines make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your Malibu the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Performance Engines brands and parts.

Popular Competition Cams Performance Engines

We carry Competition Cams parts in our stock across Performance Engine Rocker Arms categories, plus more. For a 1981 Chevrolet Malibu, our most popular Competition Cams Performance Engines include:
MAGNUM ROLLER ROCKERS, SMALL BLOCK CHEVY 1.52 1 ST
from $213.99
(1)
MAGNUM ROLLER ROCKERS, SMALL BLOCK CHEVY 1.52 1 ST
Performance Engine Rocker Arms

Top 1981 Chevrolet Malibu Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu. Popular Mr. Gasket parts include:
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats

FAQs for 1981 Chevrolet Malibu Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 Chevrolet Malibu?

Out of 90 Performance Engines for the 1981 Chevrolet Malibu, the most popular in our inventory are:
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
from $195.99
(7)
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
Performance Intake Manifolds
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
from $39.49
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
from $52.99
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets

What are the top-rated 1981 Chevrolet Malibu Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 Chevrolet Malibu based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(3)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“I bought this item for my 1979 Camaro SBC for Street/Strip application. Water pump weighs 4 LBS less than factory, comes with its own cork gaskets. N”
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
from $18.29
(3)
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
“This part is incorrectly listed as fitting a 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix. It’s not Advanced’s fault as EVERY shop and site has this part listed for that v”
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(2)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“The twisted neck comes to far up on the hub. For a 2 groove pulley it causes the pulley to hit the water pump. You will also need new bolts for the”