Best Engine Oil Pump Primers & Drives of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2026

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Engine oil pump primers and drives are essential tools for anyone who wants to ensure their engine is operating at peak performance. These devices are designed to help engines start more quickly and efficiently by pre-lubricating the oil pump and other engine components. Engine oil pump primers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used on both gas and diesel engines. They are easy to use and can save engine owners a lot of time and money in the long run. Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, investing in an engine oil pump primer is a smart choice that will pay off in the long run.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DPTOOL Oil Pump Primer Tool Cover #TOP 1
DPTOOL Oil Pump Primer Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.8
OEMTOOLS 27061 1/4 Inch Hex Oil Pump Primer Cover #TOP 2
OEMTOOLS 27061 1/4 Inch Hex Oil Pump Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
A.A Oil Pump Priming Adapter for Chevy GM LS Engines M16x1.5 Cover #TOP 3
A.A Oil Pump Priming Adapter for Chevy GM LS Engines M16x1.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Engine Oil Pump Primers & Drives

#TOP 1

DPTOOL Oil Pump Primer Tool

HTG10116
DPTOOL Oil Pump Primer Tool Cover
DPTOOL Oil Pump Primer Tool for GM Chevy V6 V8 SBC 350 BBC 454 Small Big Block

The DPTOOL Oil Primer Tool is designed to help you easily prime your engine's oil pump using a drill motor. This tool allows you to build up oil pressure and circulate oil to the top of the engine before you start it, which can prevent wear and damage to crucial engine components. It fits a wide range of small and big block Chevy engines, ensuring compatibility with various popular sizes. The tool features a sturdy aluminum sleeve that stabilizes the shaft, preventing wobbling during use, and a thick shaft with a triangular end that ensures a secure grip in your drill.

What We Like
Prevents engine wear
Compatible with many engine sizes
Stable shaft design
No slippage during use
#TOP 2

OEMTOOLS 27061 1/4 Inch Hex Oil Pump Primer

27061
Multi
1 Count (Pack of 1)
OEMTOOLS 27061 1/4 Inch Hex Oil Pump Primer Cover
OEMTOOLS 27061 1/4 Inch Hex Oil Pump Primer, Primer For Rebuilt Engine Before Its First Start, Fits 3/8 Inch Drive Drill

The OEMTOOLS Oil Pump Primer is a handy tool designed to help you properly lubricate a rebuilt engine before its first start. By turning the oil pump shaft, it circulates oil through the engine’s passages, preventing dry starts that can damage your engine’s bearings. It’s easy to use with a 3/8 inch reversible drill, giving you control and convenience. Simply attach the primer to the oil pump shaft through the distributor hole, and follow the correct rotation as per your engine’s manual. This tool helps ensure your engine gets the lubrication it needs right from the beginning, protecting your work and boosting engine performance.

What We Like
Prevents dry engine starts
Easy drill attachment
Ensures proper lubrication
Compatible with Ford engines
#TOP 3

A.A Oil Pump Priming Adapter for Chevy GM LS Engines M16x1.5

A.A
OPPAK-LSengine
A.A Oil Pump Priming Adapter for Chevy GM LS Engines M16x1.5 Cover
Oil Pump Priming Adapter Kit Compatible with All Chevy GM, LS Engines LS1, LS2, LS3, LSX, 5.3L, 6.0L, 6.2L - M16x1.5

The A.A Chevy LS Oil Primer is designed to help you properly pre-lubricate your engine before starting it after maintenance. This adapter kit makes it easy to prevent dry starts, which can protect your engine from damage. It works with a wide range of Chevrolet GM LS engines, including popular models like LS1, LS2, LS3, and LSX, as well as various engine sizes from 4.2L to 6.2L. The kit includes all necessary parts such as a hex plug, washer, hose fitting, and clamp, so you have everything you need to set up quickly and begin priming your engine oil system with ease.

What We Like
Prevents dry engine starts
Compatible with many Chevy LS engines
Complete adapter kit included
Easy installation with clear instructions
#TOP 4

Htostar Racing Oil Pump Primer Tool for Chevy V6 V8 Engines

XLB-1166-BK-JL
Htostar Racing Oil Pump Primer Tool for Chevy V6 V8 Engines Cover
Htostar Racing Oil Pump Primer Tool Compatible with Chevy V6 V8 Engines SBC 350 BBC 454 Small Big Block 283 327 305 307 SBC SB & BB

The Htostar Oil Pump Primer is designed to help you prepare your Chevy V6 or V8 engine by priming the oil pump before you start the engine. This ensures that oil circulates smoothly, preventing damage to engine parts. It fits a wide range of Chevy small and big block engines, so you can use it with many popular models. The tool features a sturdy shaft with a triangle-shaped end that prevents slipping, and it works with common hand drills for easy operation. Using this primer, you can spin the oil pump efficiently, ensuring proper oil pressure and protecting your engine from wear.

What We Like
Wide engine compatibility
Sturdy, slip-resistant design
Easy drill operation
Prevents engine wear
#TOP 5

ARP Oil Pump Driveshaft Kit 1347901

ARP
134-7901
Black
ARP Oil Pump Driveshaft Kit 1347901 Cover
Automotive ARP 1347901 Oil Pump Driveshaft Kit

The ARP Driveshaft Kit is designed specifically for your engine oil pump. With dimensions of 1.016 cm in height, 23.622 cm in length, and 13.716 cm in width, it fits conveniently into your workspace. Weighing only 0.35 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to handle. This kit is also an OEM equivalent part number 134-7901, ensuring compatibility with your vehicle. By choosing this product, you can experience enhanced performance and reliability in your oil pump operation, making maintenance tasks smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
Compatible with OEM parts
Lightweight and easy to handle
Convenient dimensions
Enhances oil pump performance
#TOP 6

PMD Products 3 Oil Pump Primer Tools for Ford and GM Engines

20000
PMD Products 3 Oil Pump Primer Tools for Ford and GM Engines Cover
PMD Products 3 Oil Pump Primer Tools The 1/4", 5/16" Hex are Applicable for use with Ford Engines and Primer for GM Chevrolet Big Small Block and 4.3L Engines

The PMD Oil Pump Primers are designed to help you prepare your rebuilt engine's lubricating system before you start it for the first time. This prevents damage caused by dry starting, which can save your engine from costly repairs. The set includes three different primers that fit popular Ford V8 and GM Chevy V8 engines, including the GM 4.3L. Each primer has a unique hex shape or metal coupler to match your engine’s oil pump drive shaft for easy attachment. Plus, the triangle-shaped drive ends prevent slippage in your drill, making priming smoother and safer for you.

What We Like
Engine lubrication protection
Fits popular Ford and GM engines
Triangle drive prevents drill slippage
Multiple hex sizes included
#TOP 7

ReluxGo Oil Pump Primer Tool

BJS037
ReluxGo Oil Pump Primer Tool Cover
ReluxGo Oil Pump Primer Tool, Compatible with GM Chevy V6 V8 SBC 350 BBC 454 Small and Big Block Chevy Engines

The ReluxGo Oil Pump Primer is a convenient tool designed for easy priming of oil pumps in GM Chevy V6 and V8 engines. With its easy-to-use design, you simply slip the primer rod down the distributor shaft hole in the manifold. The tool is compatible with a wide range of Chevy engines, including popular sizes such as 283, 327, and 454. The upgrade design features a thick shaft with a triangle-shaped end, ensuring no slippage during use. Made of high-duty steel and aluminum, this primer tool is sturdy, durable, and corrosion-resistant. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind for users.

What We Like
Easy to use
Wide application
Upgrade design
#TOP 8

Crown Automotive Oil Pump Drive Assembly

53010624AC
Unpainted
Crown Automotive Oil Pump Drive Assembly Cover
Crown Automotive Oil Pump Drive Assembly Engine

This oil pump drive assembly is a high-quality, durable and direct replacement product that is designed to enhance the style, comfort and functionality of your vehicle. Made with top-quality materials, it is engineered to last and fit your vehicle perfectly. This product falls under the category of Engine Oil Pump Primers & Drives.

What We Like
Direct replacement for easy installation
High-quality construction for durability and long-lasting performance
Enhances the style, comfort and functionality of your vehicle
#TOP 9

ARP Ford 289-302/Boss 302 Oil Pump Drive

ARP
1547904
ARP Ford 289-302/Boss 302 Oil Pump Drive Cover
ARP 1547904 Ford 289-302/Boss 302 Op

The ARP Oil Pump Drive is a reliable auto part designed specifically for Ford 289-302 and Boss 302 engines. Made in the United States, this product ensures quality and durability you can trust. Its compact size, measuring 14.5 inches long, 6 inches wide, and only half an inch thick, makes it easy to handle and install. Weighing just 0.34 pounds, it is lightweight, so you can work on your engine without added bulk or difficulty. This part falls under the category of engine oil pump primers and drives, which means it helps maintain proper oil flow in your engine, keeping everything running smoothly.

What We Like
Made in the USA
Lightweight design
Compact size for easy handling
Compatible with Ford 289-302 engines
#TOP 10

Bentolin GM Chevy Oil Pump Primer Tool for Small & Big Block Engines

AM20220326
Bentolin GM Chevy Oil Pump Primer Tool for Small & Big Block Engines Cover
For GM Chevy Oil Pump Primer Tool Compatible with Chevy 350 327 305 307 283 SBC 454 V6 V8 BBC Engine Small Big Block

The Bentolin Chevy Oil Primer is designed to fit a wide range of Chevy V6 and V8 engines, including many popular small and big block sizes. This tool helps you safely prime the engine’s lubrication system before starting a rebuilt engine, preventing damage caused by dry starts. It operates by connecting to the oil pump shaft through the distributor hole, making it easy to use. The upgraded design features a thick shaft with a triangle-shaped end, which prevents slipping when used with standard hand drills. This makes the priming process more efficient and reliable for you.

What We Like
Wide engine compatibility
Prevents dry start damage
Easy connection to oil pump
Non-slip thick shaft design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you prime an oil pump with Vaseline?

While one method involves packing the oil pump with Vaseline to create a temporary seal for vacuum to draw in oil, it is more commonly recommended to use engine assembly lube to lubricate the moving parts of the pump.

2. What happens if a pump is not primed?

If a pump is not primed and filled with fluid, it can run dry, leading to mechanical seal failure or damage to the pump's components. Priming is crucial to maintain the pump's functionality and prevent overheating.

3. What happens if you don't prime a new oil pump?

If a new oil pump is not primed, it may take several seconds to pick up oil or may not pick up oil at all. This can result in early wear of the oil pump and engine bearings. It is recommended to prime and test the pump before installation.

4. Is it OK to drive with a bad oil pump?

Driving with a bad oil pump is strongly advised against as it can lead to expensive engine damage. It is important to address any issues with the oil pump promptly to ensure proper lubrication and engine performance.

5. What are the signs of a failing oil pump?

Signs of a failing oil pump include increased engine temperature, insufficient oil pressure, noisy oil pump, noise in the hydraulic lifter, and noise from the valve-train system. These symptoms indicate potential issues with the oil pump and should be addressed promptly.

6. What stops a pump from priming?

The most common cause of a pump not priming is debris blocking the suction strainer or foot valve. Additionally, a blockage in the intake line can cause the water in the pump casing to overheat and lose prime. It is important to ensure that the pump's intake system is clear of any obstructions.

Editor's Notes

During our engine oil pump primers & drive research, we found 24 engine oil pump primers & drive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,661 customer reviews through our big data system to write the engine oil pump primers & drives list. We found that most customers choose engine oil pump primers & drives with an average price of $16.20.

The engine oil pump primers & drives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of engine oil pump primers & drives, including DPTOOL, OEMTOOLS, A.A, Htostar Racing, ARP. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 644 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.