oil pressure problem

simonjrwinter · #1 (**permalink**) 10-25-2003, 08:02 AM

My rebuilt 331 stroker engine (with 100 miles on it) runs really sweetly. However I'm a bit concerned with the oil pressure.
On start up it goes up to 40lbs (ish) per sq in and pretty much stays there. As I'm running it in I haven't revved it too much, but anywhere between 1,000 and 2,500 revs and the gague stays put. It doesn't seem to get significantly lower when it's hot either.
I fitted it with a secondhand (but brand new and unused) TRW oil pump that I was told was high volume, also fitted the SVO hardened oil pump shaft as was recommended. I stripped the pump down to check it all out, and thoroghly clean and lubricate it before putting it back together. I can accept that I was screwed up and sold a standard pump but surely it shouldn't act like that.
I think my next step is to get a capilliary oil gauge and test the pressure "manually" without relying on the sender and gague (both working fine with last engine) does anyone have any advice?
What if the pump really is only pumping out 40psi? is there a valve that might stop it producing more that could be faulty?
Thanks guys, and help appreciated, I don't seem to have much luck with engines.

SSSnake · #2 (**permalink**) 10-25-2003, 08:07 AM

Don't forget, high volume does not necessarily mean high pressure. I'm no expert, but 40 pounds seems like enough to me. Does the pressure go up once you get above 2,500 rpm?

simonjrwinter · #3 (**permalink**) 10-25-2003, 08:10 AM

To be honest, I've not revved it beyond 3,00 rpm yet but it doesn't seem to get any higher.
Simon

CowtownCobra · #4 (**permalink**) 10-25-2003, 08:14 AM

Hmmm....

I've got a new motor with a high volume oil pump. It pegs the gauge when I start it up. When its really hot it gets down to 45 at idle. I'm going back to a stock oil pump. Don't want to break anything or wear out the cam gear.

Just my take...