I have low oil pressure when the engine is at normal operating temperature while the RPMs are under 1000. The oil pressure drops to 6-7PSI when the engine is at 800RPM. I also have a "low oil" light randomly. Most of the time the car will show it when I first start it, but then sometimes when I turn it off and on again it goes away. Sometimes I have to wait until the car is warm, then restart it. Sometimes it doesn't go away at all.
Is there any way that these two problems could be related?
And yes, the oil level is actually fine - but for some reason the sensor doesn't think so. I'm running 5w40 oil, maybe I should change to a heavier oil?
2006-12-01 04:56:46 · 6 answers · asked by jeff_is_sexy 4 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
By the way, I've seen the spec sheet and know that the engine should run at least 6PSI at 1000RPM, however I still think there may be a problem because the pressure is usually higher than this. Thanks to the guy that gave me that sheet by the way.
2006-12-01 05:00:01 · update #1
One more thing - maybe the sensors are gunked up? We had to rebuild the engine 1000 miles ago, and it's known to us that the previous owners used some type of thickening agent to mask the oil pressure problem before.
Just some extra info in case it applies.
2006-12-01 05:01:59 · update #2
Hey Michelle, do me a favor and go to the nearest high traffic area and lay down.
Don't answer questions, especially ones like this, unless you know what you're talking about.
2006-12-01 05:06:26 · update #3
I said, "WE" had to rebuild the motor. I.E., I did it.
2006-12-01 05:11:57 · update #4
The only thing I didn't do when I rebuild it was bore it because it was fine when I mic'd it. The machijne work was professionally done, line bored and acid washed.
2006-12-01 05:13:53 · update #5
Absolutely no way it could be bearings after 1000 miles! I checked, checked and checked again when I put them in.
2006-12-01 05:14:45 · update #6
In an extremely cold climate 5-30 but in average climate 10-30 or just plain 30w. Oil pump could be ...but probably the rod and main bearings are worn out. Sounds like it is time for an overhaul or new rebuild exchange engine. Did you line bore the case?
2006-12-01 05:52:33 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
When did you last change your oil filter? If that is partially blocked then the bypass valve will lift to allow oil to circulate, and the oil pressure will drop. Change the oil and filter, perhaps try a slightly heavier grade, say a 10W/40, or even a 15W/50, and see what happens. It may also pay to have the pressure checked with a very accurate gauge. Provided that the oil pressure rises when the revs rise, then you should be OK, most engines don't need a great deal of pressure at tickover. If an oil and filter change doesn't help, then you could be looking at worn oil pump, or worn big ends and mains.
When you rebuilt the engine, was it a full rebuild, with rebore, new big ends and mains? Did you check the oil pump for wear? Was the block thoroughly cleaned out with an acid or degreaser wash to clear any shite out of the galleries? If you have gunked-up sensors, then change them.
2006-12-01 05:07:01 · answer #2 · answered by Phish 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Make sure you have an accurate pressure gauge to install in place of the oil pressure sensor. Verify the reading is correct. Then change the oil pressure switch. These switches should already be changed out with every engine overhaul. On some models the engine just shuts off and won't start again until the problem is corrected. Another thing, did you replace the oil pump when you rebuilt your engine? If not, the oil pump is weak and needs to be replaced.
2006-12-01 06:58:48 · answer #3 · answered by Jesse D 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes the problems are related! More than likely this indicates worn main and rod bearings. A heavier oil may mask the problem and get you by for a little while but eventually you will have to rebuild it!!! If you personally had this engine rebuilt, present the problem to the mechanic. If the previous owners had this rebuilt... and have no proof ie. reciepts, then they are probably BS'in you. Hey a**hole...my husband answered this question and is a 22 year ASE Tech. So go play in traffic yourself!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It sounds like you have all the answers so why are you asking questions????
2006-12-01 05:02:47 · answer #4 · answered by Michelle 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
older chevys are known for that,just check your oil frequentley ontill u find the maine problem.
2006-12-01 05:17:17 · answer #5 · answered by redneck boy 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I KNOW THINGS ARE ROUGH,BUT DONT DO THAT TO A CAMARO & BESIDES THAT TRANSFER IS FOR DEISELS
2016-05-23 08:01:17 · answer #6 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋