Classic/Antique Car Repair/Low Oil Pressure

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Expert: - 4/21/2009


Question
I have a 72 Vette Roadster with a 350 small block from a 69 Chevelle.  The oil pressure as measure by the installed guage goes to around 40psi when the vehicle is warming up and then drops to below 10 at idle. If the accelerator is pushed, the oil pressure stays up.  I suspect the oil pump. Could it be anything else?  How do you replace the oil pump on this engine?  Any downside to a high capacity pump?  BTW, the Chevy expert is on vacation until 30 Apr.  Thanks, Kevin

Answer
Hi Kevin:
On an old Vette, this is normal. The old vettes took at least 5 minutes to warm up and get the oil pressure to a normal level, so 40 psi is normal for the first 5 minutes or so, then it would go back down to normal. This had a lot to do with the 350/305 engines and the way the head gaskets was designed. You can replace the oil pump, but not sure if it would improve the warm up and oil pressure readings.

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

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All around the Internet

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I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

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I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

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