VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1929-1932 1932 Oil Pressure

I have used "search" but find nothing to address the '32 engine oil pressure unless it is similar to the '31 mentioned. Does the '32 have a vane type oil pump? I'm experiencing generally 5 to 10 lbs. pressure when oil is hot. Would feel more comfortable with additional pressure unless this is enough. Thanks in advance.

The 1932 oiling system was improved over the 1931.It had oil pumped under pressure to the main and cam bearings - so pressure is a little more important.The 1931 and prior engines merely had the oil pumped to resivours above the main bearings and gravity did the rest.

The original pump for a 1932 was a vane type pump.In later years a gear pump was sold for replacement..Either one is satisfactory if in good condition.Your oil pressure should read in the 13 pound range at 50 MPH.(perhaps a little lower with your 3.50 rear end0.At idle 3 lbs. is normal (all with hot oil).

At what speed is the 5 to 10 lbs. showing?

The first year for a cam bearing was 1933 and it was the center bearing. 1930 was the first year to have pressure to the center main bearing only. At any rate, 5 to 10 pounds for a vane pump is fine and you really don't need lots of pressure for the 1929-32 engines. :cool2:

The 1933 had an actual bearing for the center cam journal (babbited bearing) but the end bearings were fed oil under pressure from the main bearings- although they ran directly in the block as all 1931 and prior journals did..1935-36 had a replaceable rear cam brg. also.1932 cam journals were pressure fed and cam ran directly in the block.----1931 and prior cam bearings were gravity fed.......This is the way I read it....correct????

My Canadian '29 engine has cam bearings. Regards, Gary

Any readable pressure above zero at hot idle is ok. Typical pressure at road speed will be in the 10 lb range when hot. Though any pressure that will feed oil to the rocker shafts and all the arms is more than plenty for the cam and crankbearings.

I will repeat for the upteenth time that a major reason for the higher modern oil pressures is to get a high flow rate for internal cooling not lubrication. The protection to prevent metal to metal contact is due to the film strength of the oil not the flow rate. It takes very high flow rates and pressures to provide additional protection. It is a myth that pressure equates to protection. It however is an excellant indicator of internal wear. Significant drop from normal pressure indicates either more internal heat or greater tolerance in the oil pump or pressure fed parts. Wear in non-pressure fed parts (such as the front and rear mains or rod bearings in the '29-31 engines) will not effect oil pressure.

You guys are just great when it comes to building confidence about these old machines that we love so much and care deeply for!!! I feel so fortunate having this source to turn to when doubts arise about mechanical questions. You guys are under paid but not under appreciated. Your dependent friend in Iowa. Russ