ITM front case: issues, experiences.

[SaulHudson]

I see a few threads from 2012 of people having issues with the ITM front case. Who has had good experience with it? My machine shop got it for my build at 209$ but I am still kind of wary to use it. There are a vast number threads on problems with topline cases but ITM doesn't seem popular. I am building a 35r car so I would like to stay far away from garbage. I know most people swear by oem for the oil pump but ITM is a good aftermarket front case company for other cars.


Also are there any votes for using the inspection method in the service manual and reusing the oem case if it passes feeler gauge? Motor was not blown.

 

[evileagleawd]

I have run OEM and topline front covers. Obviously I would rather use a OEM one but that isent always in the budget. The problem with some of the topline front cover was a bad batch of castings. When installing the oil pump pulley it would hit the front cover. Im sure these casting are still floating around somewhere. But I have 15k on a topline cover with no issues. $209 for a topline oil pump sounds a little high. There like $150 at EXTREME PSI : Your #1 Source for In Stock Performance Parts

 

[SaulHudson]

I have run OEM and topline front covers. Obviously I would rather use a OEM one but that isent always in the budget. The problem with some of the topline front cover was a bad batch of castings. When installing the oil pump pulley it would hit the front cover. Im sure these casting are still floating around somewhere. But I have 15k on a topline cover with no issues. $209 for a topline oil pump sounds a little high. There like $150 at EXTREME PSI : Your #1 Source for In Stock Performance Parts

Sorry if my post was unclear. I got the ITM front case for 209 and that is what I would like opinions on. There are 2 instances on this forum where people have has issues but those were 2+ years ago. I stayed away from topline because of the many more bad experiences.

 

[evileagleawd]

No you were clear I just cant read . Your always taking a slight risk using a aftermarket part that has been reproduced off a OEM part. If your looking for piece of mind send the ITM one back and get an OEM one. I think John Wigger is selling a 6 bolt OEM pump with straight cut gears for $275. Sorry I can not chime in on the ITM pump. Ive never used one. Ive never reused a DSM oil pump. For $150-$300 I would rather just put a new one in and know I'm not going to have any issues.

 

[BogusSVO]

I have been using the Hyundai/Kia front case pumps.

I have installed 6 of them, mix and match on 6 and 7 bolts.

I have not had info on a bad one yet.

 

[zedicus]

i have ran several ITM products recently and over the past few years. i have had good luck with them, including the front case. however if you paid 209$ for it you got ripped off. a little bit more and you could have got an OEM or name brand atleast. my last ITM front case with seals and gaskets i think i spent 120$ on with shipping included.

 

[TSIMonsteR]

For future reference, the ITM is about $150 most places. I also know people have had luck with Rock Autos cheaper options too (the DNJ for $100)

RockAuto Parts Catalog

Of course, like everyone else, I'd rather have a new OEM, but topline/itm seems to be working fine for many.

 

[SaulHudson]

Thanks for the input all.