High Volume oil pump?

[Highbanked Hauler]

   I have a 318 with a strong cam and probably a 10 to 1 compression ratio in my son's Challenger and after a rocket ride from Mass. to Washington state and back  I've noticed the oil pressure  has dropped to about 20 lb. down from about 30 lb. This was a hard run (80 mph.plus most of the way) and I think the engine has loosened up some and I want to be sure the oil is getting where its supposed to. Does putting in a high volume pump seem the practical solution? thanks.

[idahogrumpy]

At what rpm are you seeing that oil pressure? I think maybe there is a problem with your engine. Grumpy

[69charger440]

Also how long has the oil been in the engine, maybe it losing its viscosity. Or low on oil!!!!

[Rubberduck]

I once had the same problem. Result: low oil
Check this first.


Mario

[Highbanked Hauler]

 Negative on low oil I wouldn't let that go unchecked. The engine only had a few miles on it when I got it  so I know its history. The previous owner was going to use this motor to race a 66 Barracuda so I am guessing it might have been built "loose" to make sure everything got oil or he made a mistake building it. Even "new" it never went above 40Lb. I have been running Rotilla 15-40 diesel oil in all my vehicles  except the PT so I know it isn't viscosity like you would have with 5-30..      (At what rpm are you seeing that oil pressure? I think maybe there is a problem with your engine. Grumpy)    There is about 60,000 on the motor. When it is warm it will idle( 6-700  rpm. ish) at 15+lb. and as soon as it gets up to 1200 rpm.it will hold at 20-30 lb.
   My 360 which is a rebuilt will idle at 30 lb. and with any gas at all it will go to almost 50 lb.  This motor runs real well so I don't want to get into a rebuild situation. I feel it is leaking at the bearings and the top end isn't getting all the oil it should.

[John_Kunkel]

If your absolutely sure the gauge is accurate, a HV pump would seem to be the solution.

[Highbanked Hauler]

If your absolutely sure the gauge is accurate, a HV pump would seem to be the solution.

          I can't say that the gauge is 100% but it is the same one I had on the 360 plus the oil pressure was higher in this motor prior to the 6000  mile run. Thanks,

[firefighter3931]

I would have no reservations using an HV pump in your situation. I allways use them and set the bearing clearances at .0025 on the mains & rods. Oil pressure is a good thing. 


Ron