Once you get back under load, pressure reads normal. I am assuming it is the sending unit, because if the oil pump was on the way out, it would be worse under load. Has no blow-by, burns very little oil, leaks some. 220,000 miles runs well. Am I wrong, or what? Again, the oil pressure only reads low at stoplights after driving awhile. Should I be greatly concerned? Thanks, Dan
2006-09-15 14:21:26 · 8 answers · asked by Dan M 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
WOW! I'm suprised it lasted that long. (just kidding)
As the engine wears over time the clearances between crank, connecting rods, main bearings, lifters, etc. increase and will allow the engine oil to pass thru more easily.
As the engine warms, the engine oil thins out and is more easily pushed the the engine with less restriction.
As the engine speed increases, the pump delivers more oil to the engine.
I wouldn't be too concerned. At idle, the is not much of a load on the engine.
You may want to use a higher viscosity oil if it bugs you.
2006-09-15 14:35:01 · answer #1 · answered by Mr. KnowItAll 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The best thing to do is have a mechanic check the pressure with a mechanical gauge so you can determine if it is a mechanical problem or a sending unit, but it sounds like the bearings could be getting worn. By design, a certain amount of oil will pass through the bearings and end up back in the oil pan. More clearance between bearings and engine parts means more oil can get through resulting in lower oil pressure. The oil pump is also more than likely worn too, judging by the mileage. The pressure will be higher when you first start driving because the oil is thicker until it heats up. The oil pump turns in relation with engine rpm so when the engine rpm is low, such as at a stop light, the oil pump is turning slower. Once you accelerate the engine rpm increases turning the oil pump faster giving you more pressure. Hope this helps!
2006-09-15 22:12:50 · answer #2 · answered by jason d 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
after those many miles you may need to change to a higher viscosity oil assuming you have been changing the oil on a regular bases. get the leaks stopped and make sure that there are no vacuum lines cracked, broken or off where they go, you could drop the oil pan and make sure that the oil pick up screen isn't clogged.
2006-09-15 21:37:11 · answer #3 · answered by barrbou214 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the car idols ruff or you hear a light tapping noise like it is
comming from the lifters when the pressure is low then chances are it probably is the oil pump.
2006-09-15 21:54:12 · answer #4 · answered by kh50599 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i have a 98 chevrolet p/u with 251,000 miles and it does he same thing, but for the most part, it is just the oil warming up and thinning out, not too much to worry about, just as long as you maintain the oil level amd change the oil and filter on a regular basis
2006-09-15 21:48:30 · answer #5 · answered by capt_krunch34 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take your van to a reputable mechanic and ask to have an oil pressure check performed. You may have worn cam bearings which can cause this type of problem.
2006-09-15 22:05:05 · answer #6 · answered by wolfcub69 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Did you put in an oil pressure gauge? Didn't know Voyager had one. Mine doesn't. It's a 94.
2006-09-15 22:53:00 · answer #7 · answered by MrZ 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
try using Lucas oil stabilizer, it is thick and sticky as hell it will help i have to use in my car (same problem)
2006-09-15 22:06:25 · answer #8 · answered by bubbles 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋