I'm thinking there is no shortest water pump.  Remember the water pump pulley has to align with crank pulley. If your car is '74 and up you should have sufficient space already. If you put the 2.3 in a '71-'73 there is minimal space. I think there is about 3/16" between the bolt and the center rod in the picture.  I run an electric fan without issues. I use the whole Turbo Coupe relay box. The fan is basically generic with a mount made from angle iron. My only issue is fingers and fans. thankfully the fans don't run with the engine off.  Here are a few pictures.