I believe I would use the stock VW oil pump for the '83 mechanical lifter head and block. Too much oil pressure can be just as bad as too little. I use a stock VW pump in my production car, turning up to 8000 rpm. When the engine is at operating temps, I see about 65 to 70 psi at 7000 rpm; thus the old general rule of 10 psi per 1000 rpm.

Be sure to pre-prime the oil system in the engine before starting it. I remove the distributor and use a small metric socket & speed handle to turn drive tang of the oil pump. Consequently the oil galleys are filled with pressurized oil. Also don't use a synthetic based oil during breakin of the engine as a synthetic does not seem to allow the rings to seat against the cylinder walls.

Regards, Ryan.

[This message has been edited by Ryan Williams (edited March 15, 2002).]