Re: Standard 8 '49 - oil pressure

Posted by Dave Kenney On 2008/2/26 9:34:00

Het, Thanks for dropping in. I installed a brass "T" fitting and an oil pressure gauge at the engine block where the oil pressure sender is located. The dash gauge and the new oil pressure gauge have quite different readings especially when hot so maybe your factory gauge is no longer accurate after almost 60 years. The oil pressure can be altered by removing the pressure relief spring from the oil pump and a placing a washer under the spring. It will help up the pressure when the oil is cold but if your engine bearings are worn the oil pressure will still be low when the oil becomes hot. Thirty-five pounds pressure is not all that bad and certainly no cause for concern but the pressure should start to build within a few seconds of the engine starting. I would try adding a new gauge like I did and see what happens. It just may be a lazy sender or faulty gauge. What is the pressure at idle speed when the engine is hot and what grade of oil are you using; 10W30 etc.?