I recently installed an electrical oil pressure gauge in the same location as the factory dummy switch. My oil pressure is showing 0-5 psi at hot idle (200 deg F Coolant temp) and 20 psi at 55MPH and 30 psi at 75 MPH. The factory dummy light for low oil pressure never came on or flickered at idle but did work and light up when the engine was off. I believe the factory setting of this switch is 4 psi. (Please correct me if I am wrong.) The engine has 167k miles and is an 87 Turbo Regal.
My question is what are my options to try to increase oil pressure? I have listed the options I see below with the questions I have. Please help me answer the questions and add options to the list.
1.) Replace main bearings - can this be done with the engine in the car?
2.) Replace rod bearings - can this be done with the engine in the car?
3.) Ensure the oil pump suction tube screen is clean - can this be done with the engine in the car?
4.) Install oil pump booster plate - can this be done without removing the front cover? can this be done with the engine still in the car?
5.) Install high pressure oil pump - I have heard concerns wear on the cam bushing. Any concern with a stock high mileage engine? Can this be done without removing the front cover? Can this be done with the engine still in the car?
Thanks, Joe
My question is what are my options to try to increase oil pressure? I have listed the options I see below with the questions I have. Please help me answer the questions and add options to the list.
1.) Replace main bearings - can this be done with the engine in the car?
2.) Replace rod bearings - can this be done with the engine in the car?
3.) Ensure the oil pump suction tube screen is clean - can this be done with the engine in the car?
4.) Install oil pump booster plate - can this be done without removing the front cover? can this be done with the engine still in the car?
5.) Install high pressure oil pump - I have heard concerns wear on the cam bushing. Any concern with a stock high mileage engine? Can this be done without removing the front cover? Can this be done with the engine still in the car?
Thanks, Joe