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Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87 |
My oil pressure gauge has never moved, I assumed it didn't work. However, when I took it out to clean the bezel, there was no oil in the pipe. Today I loosened the line at the "T" fitting, cranked it over a few turns and nothing. I've driven this car weekly and the motor seems fine- what should I do to make sure there is sufficient oil pressure?
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Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,192 Likes: 8
ChatMaster - 3,000
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ChatMaster - 3,000
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 3,192 Likes: 8 |
I would disconnect all your oil lines and blow some compressed air through them to check for blockages. Have you removed the sump and cleaned out the sludge from the bottom of the pan ,as it can block the pick up and have clean oil sitting in the sump and going no where. The gasket in the oil pump may also be faulty and not hold pressure. New oil pumps are available from www.fillingstation.com part number RW-415
JACK
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 19,758 Likes: 64
ChatMaster - 15,000
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ChatMaster - 15,000
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 19,758 Likes: 64 |
I have found that it is sometimes necessary to prime the oil pumps for them to work. Take off both of the oil lines and add oil to the pump. Thighten the inlet line and leave the outlet a little loose. Start the engine and see if you get oil leaking at the outlet. If so tighten the outlet pipe and you should now have oil pressure. If not then try filling the inlet pipe with oil and try again. Once primed the oil pump should work.
How Sweet the roar of a Chevy four!
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Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87 |
Thanks for the tips guys. It's a relief to know I can still buy a pump if I need one. I'll check for blockages and prime the system.
The service manual seems to indicate that the engine is primarily lubricated by splash from the sump and the oil pump system is more supplementary, except for the center main bearing, which has a supply line from the pump. Correct?
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Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87 |
Great news! I primed the pump as Chipper suggested and now have (for the first time) 5 pounds of oil pressure on the gauge. Engine still sounds fine.
One other question: I've been lubricating the rocker arms periodically, but just noticed in the manual about filling the valve spring pockets with oil. How and how often is this done?
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1
Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
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Technical Advisor ChatMaster - 10,000
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 10,379 Likes: 1 |
There are two reservoirs, one for # 1&2 pistons and one for 3&4 pistons. They should be oiled by about 1/2 full with the same oil as used in the engine. Observe the oil and replenish as needed to maintain the 1/2 level.  
RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/1925 Superior K Roadster 1928 Convertible, Sport, Cabriolet 1933 Eagle, Coupe 1941 Master Deluxe 5-Passenger Coupe 1950 Styleline Deluxe 4-Door Sedan 1950 Styleline Deluxe Convertible 2002 Pontiac, Montana, Passenger Van 2014 Impala, 4-Door Sedan, White Diamond, LTZ 2017 Silverado, Double Cab, Z71, 4X4, White, Standard Bed, LTZ If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road. Death is the number 1 killer in the world.
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Joined: Nov 2006
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ChatMaster - 2,000
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ChatMaster - 2,000
Joined: Nov 2006
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I asked my friend with the 50 year long restoration of his Four-Ninety. Due to his experience he would not recommend oil in the reservoirs, but only some drops from the oil cans directly on the parts moving before driving. He thinks "more" oil could be fastening the valves, due to "burning". Also the floating oil will make the engine room more greasy than wanted and needed. What is your comment to his meaning?  
Solan G, # 32797
Take advantage in your hobby by being member of VCCA!
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Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 43
Shade Tree Mechanic
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Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 43 |
Wish this discussion had come up when I first got my 19 Baby Grand Centerdoor about 5 years ago! I ruined the motor because of this exact situation. One of the former owners asked me afterwards "didn't you prime the oil pump?". I didn't because I was new to this and no one told me! I have lost interest in the car and the motor sits on a stand about half back together.
J
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Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 87 |
Sorry to hear that. I think the only thing that saved mine was that it had been overfilled with oil, so the bottom end still got some splash lubrication.
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