Low Oil Pressure. Problem?
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,290
Likes: 186
From: Naples FL
Low Oil Pressure. Problem?
The car is a 71 LT-1 with approx. 85,000 miles. I do not believe the engine has been rebuilt (or ever out of the car). The car does not smoke and runs well, although not as strong as other 71s I've driven. Does not overheat despite 90+ temps.
Once hot, and at idle, the oil pressure drops to 10lbs or so. While driving the pressure is nearly pegged to the right (70lbs).
Is this an indication of a tired engine or other problem?
Thanks. Tom
Once hot, and at idle, the oil pressure drops to 10lbs or so. While driving the pressure is nearly pegged to the right (70lbs).
Is this an indication of a tired engine or other problem?
Thanks. Tom
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 2,103
Likes: 0
From: Tucson AZ
Re: Low Oil Pressure. Problem? (Midyrman)
I "believe" the idle pressure is low. Mine runs about 17 at idle and pegged to the right while driving. The LT-1 should be noticeably stronger than other 71's, so the engine could need some TLC.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 1,183
Likes: 2
From: Des Moines Iowa
Re: Low Oil Pressure. Problem? (Midyrman)
Low oil pressure at idle with warm engine, and good pressure when cold as you described on an engine with 85,000 miles, would indicate :
1) worn oil pump, replace with new stock unit
2) worn main and rod bearings, can be replaced with new "standard" size bearings and with # 1 above, I'll bet you have good oil pressure at idle.
I did the above on my 97,000 mile 350 and it brought the oil pressure back up.
1) worn oil pump, replace with new stock unit
2) worn main and rod bearings, can be replaced with new "standard" size bearings and with # 1 above, I'll bet you have good oil pressure at idle.
I did the above on my 97,000 mile 350 and it brought the oil pressure back up.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,160
Likes: 0
From: Ajax Ontario
Re: Low Oil Pressure. Problem? (john's '81 mouse)
Does sound like engine is getting worn (comment on lower power combined with low oil pressure). What viscosity of oil in the engine? A tired engine may benefit from a slightly heavier oil (10W30 to 10W40?), not just for pressure but for sealing the rings a little better. :cheers:
