Abstract: A pump and filter assembly including a filter housing secured in a pump housing. The filter housing has a filter outlet portion with a central filter outlet passage. A plurality of nozzle passages are disposed adjacent and radially outward of the filter outlet passage. The nozzles communicate with an annular recess formed in the filter outlet portion. The annular recess receives return bypassed hydraulic fluid from a regulator valve for distribution through the nozzles into an inlet stream of fluid flowing through the filter outlet passage. The inlet stream velocity is increased which increases the pressure at the pump inlet. The increased pressure at the pump inlet allows the pump to operate at higher speeds without cavitation.