Early style sb water pumps

Early Cast Iron water pump = 8 pounds

Late Aluminum water pump = 5.4 pounds

So, to change front cover, vibration damper, radiator, hoses, intake, and brackets for 2.6 pounds?

You should read the story of Jimmy Addison and the silver bullet. He spent hours with the hole saw, cutting holes wherever they would not show. He also would trim off any excess threads of every bolt, and even cut the auto brake pedal in 1/2 just to save weight! In the end, I believe he cut over 200# doing just these examples, including over 30# of excess threads from bolts and studs!