Answering the need for a complete, reliable SBC accessory drive kit, this guide highlights five options that cover long-water-pump setups, belt-driven systems, and brackets for common SBC configurations. These kits are best for DIY hot rods, street rods, and traditional small-block builds that require a clean, durable drive system. Each option targets a specific SBC setup, such as long water pumps, double-hump heads, or no-A/C configurations. The quick comparison below helps buyers choose the right kit for their engine and accessories, while the buying guide clarifies key distinctions.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Thomletha Alternator Power Long Water Pump Kit | Long water pump compatibility; includes two pulleys and mounting bolts | Builders needing a long-pump setup without A/C integration |
| ICT Billet SBC Alternator/Power Steering Bracket 551576 | Double hump vs standard heads; US-made billet bracket for long pump | Streets and mild builds with double-hump SBC heads |
| for SBC Small Block Chevy Chrome Pulley Kit | Long-water-pump setup with no A/C; aluminum front drive | Budget-friendly, no-A/C SBC builds |
| Tiny Force Water Pump & Crank Pulleys Kit | Complete pulley set with polished brackets and fans | Show cars and hot rods needing polished hardware |
| Long Water Pump Kit + Alternator + Power Steering Bracket (WINNEWFUTURE) | Long pump pulleys plus alternator and power-steering brackets | Long-pump SBC builds seeking a full bracket kit |
Note: This article avoids including prices and focuses on compatibility, use cases, and practical buyer considerations. The table above groups the five most relevant options for typical SBC accessory drive needs and helps compare assembly scope and mounting compatibility at a glance.
Thomletha Alternator Power Long Water Pump Kit
Features: Designed for Small Block engines with a long water pump; fits 1958-1995 SBCs; does not fit Vortec engines and is not for A/C systems. Includes one 6 5/8 inch diameter groove water-pump pulley with bolts and two 6 5/8 inch diameter groove crankshaft pulleys with bolts.
Best for: Builders using a long-water-pump SBC without air conditioning, who want a straightforward pulley and bracket kit.
Caution: Not compatible with Vortec variants or vehicles configured with A/C systems; confirm pump style before ordering.
ICT Billet SBC Alternator/Power Steering Bracket 551576
Features: Compatible with SBC engines using double hump heads or standard heads; designed for a V-belt system and long-style water pumps.
Best for: Builds featuring double-hump SBC heads that need a sturdy, USA-made billet bracket for a clean belt drive setup.
Caution: Limited to belt-drive configurations and specific head types; verify head design before purchase.
Chrome Pulley Kit For SBC Long Water Pump
Features: Aluminum front drive set-up for long-water-pump SBC engines; aligns with power steering and no A/C configurations.
Best for: Budget-conscious SBC builders who want a long-pump pulley kit with no A/C, using a chrome/aluminum finish.
Caution: Primarily suited for long-water-pump engines; check fitment against pump model and mounting points.
Long Water Pump Kit + Bracket (WINNEWFUTURE)
Features: Includes a 1-groove water pump pulley with bolts, a 2-groove crank pulley with bolts, and a 1-groove alternator pulley plus alternator fan and related brackets.
Best for: SBC builds needing a complete long-pump drive with integrated alternator and power steering bracketry.
Caution: Ensure compatibility with your specific long-pump model and pulley counts before ordering.
ICT Billet SBC Turned-Buckle Bracket 551493
Features: Made in Wichita, Kansas; billet aluminum; compatible with long water pump setups on big block-style SBC engines; designed for use with a long water pump.
Best for: Builders seeking a premium billet bracket for long-pump SBC applications in a classic Chevy layout.
Caution: Designed for long-pump applications; not compatible with all pump configurations without verification.
ICT Billet SBC Alternator/Power Steering Bracket 551324
Features: Fits SBC engines with electric water pumps; billet aluminum; USA-made; compatible with long water pump pulleys and 36P1435-style power steering pumps.
Best for: Modernized SBC builds using electric water pumps that still require a robust belt-drive accessory bracket.
Caution: Electric-pump applications require confirmation of pump compatibility and pulley arrangement.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Your SBC Accessory Drive Kit
- Engine compatibility: Confirm whether your SBC uses a long water pump, standard pump, or electric pump. This determines which brackets and pulleys fit properly.
- Head design: If your engine uses double-hump heads, choose a bracket kit specified for that configuration to ensure proper belt alignment and mounting.
- Accessory layout: Decide if you need a kit that includes power steering, alternator, and water pump pulleys in one package, or separate pieces for a staggered build.
- A/C considerations: Some kits are designed for no-A/C or non-A/C configurations. If you plan to add A/C later, verify compatibility or choose a kit that supports future upgrades.
- Materials and finish: Billet aluminum brackets offer durability and a premium look, while chrome/aluminum pulleys provide a classic aesthetic. Choose based on build goals and budget.
- Installation space: Ensure the kit fits within your engine bay without clearance issues around the alternator, power steering pump, and pulleys with the hood closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a long water pump SBC kit good for? It is designed for engines that use a longer water pump, often found on earlier SBC generations, to maintain proper belt routing and pulley alignment.
- Do these kits work with or without A/C? Some kits are intended for no-A/C setups; others may support A/C installation depending on the bracket and pulleys. Check product notes carefully.
- Can I mix and match pulleys from different brands? It’s possible if the pulleys share compatible belts and diameters, but it’s best to use a complete kit designed for your engine to ensure alignment and belt tension.
- Is billet aluminum better than stamped steel for brackets? Billet aluminum brackets are built for rigidity and durability but come at a higher price; for many builds, OEM-style stamped brackets are adequate when properly maintained.
- What should I verify before ordering? Confirm engine type (long vs short pump), head design (standard vs double-hump), belt system (V-belt or serpentine), and whether you need an electric or mechanical water pump setup.
- Are these kits suitable for hot rods and street rods? Yes, many kits target hot rod and street rod builds requiring reliable, show-ready appearance and robust mounting.