Electric Water Pump
The bolt-on
A Meziere WP 321 electric water pump in place of a standard mechanical unit. $550
The mule
The Nova with Edelbrock Victor Jr. intake manifold and a 750-cfm Mighty Demon carb.
Our take
We were impressed with the amount of power gained, and our mule's coolant temperature never broke 190 degrees.
Before
Max torque: 361 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpmMax power: 335 hp @ 5,800 rpmAverage torque: 361 lb-ftAverage power: 274 hp
After
Max torque: 391 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpmMax power: 358 hp @ 5,900 rpmAverage torque: 341 lb-ftAverage power: 293 hp
Difference
+30 lb-ft+23 hp
Underdrive Pulleys
The bolt-on
March serpentine conversion kit with underdrive pulleys: crank, water pump, alternator, and power-steering pump. $476
The mule
The Nova with an Edelbrock Victor Jr. intake manifold and a 750-cfm Mighty Demon carb.
Our take
Reducing accessory-belt drag paid off with big power gains.
Before
Max torque: 361 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpmMax power: 335 hp @ 5,800 rpmAverage torque: 361 lb-ftAverage power: 274 hp
After
Max torque: 391 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpmMax power: 360 hp @ 5,900 rpmAverage torque: 355 lb-ftAverage power: 289 hp
Difference
+30 lb-ft+25 hp