found this on melling select pumps , according to this they still use billet gears , just an observation,,,,Paul
Melling "M Select" Performance Oil Pump w/Extended Shafts
The drive and idler shafts have been extended to allow for additional support into the cover. This eliminates dynamic shaft deflection at increased rpm levels. The cover is doweled to the pump housing to assure alignment of shaft bores. The housing and cover are CNC machined and manganese phosphate coated for wear and rust protection. The gears are billet steel. The relief valve features a screw-in plug for easy spring change. Includes intermediate pump shaft. "C" = anti-cavitation, designed for high rpm.