What kind of pressure drop can I expect when I see the idiot light come on on the dashboard. I have a 1971 Skylark with a freshly rebuilt 350. I've never seen this light come on before, but I admit I was being young and stupid tonight and frying the tires when I saw the light come on. I naturally shut down the motor instantly. And the light isnt back. I suppose I should invest in an oil pressure gauge huh? James
I think the light comes on at about 7psiou: Did you check the oil level?? Sometimes the force of braking or acceleration can momentarily uncover the pickup creating low pressure. And yes, no Buick should be without a good mechanical oil pressure gauge. The first thing you should buy, and a water temperature gauge while your at it.
Yes. Oil level was about a quart down. I'm on the way to the store for those guages .. Thanks for the reply. James
absolutety! More than likely you'll find that your Buick 350 has low oil pressure all the time. Since your motor has a fresh rebuild, I would definitely check the condition of the pump housing. Remove the pump gears and check the cover and housing for scoring, this is often overlooked by people not fimiliar with rebuilding Buicks. Hope this helps, Good Luck!
booster plate If you are going to go through the trouble of taking the oil pump apart I would highly recommend that you buy a booster plate. I just helped a kid across the street, that I sold a buick Electra to, change the oil pump gears. It's not hard and can be done in an hour if you have all the parts ready. I checked and Checker auto has the booster plate for $16. comes with all the gaskets and bolts that you will need. This can boost your oil pressure at idle by 10 psi with out any wear on your pump or dis. gear.
