Re: Oil pressure concern

[Schuyler Wrobel <schuyler62@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hmm, I did a very similar build for the 318 Poly in my Dodge wagon
(except the rod and crank bearings) and it to gets the same low oil
pressure readings, but I've been attributing mine to a leaking rear 
main seal.
And I've noticed that the cooler I can keep the car the better the oil 
pressure,
anything, say, over 185 degrees and the oil pressure starts to suffers. 
Let me know
if you find out any thing more.
 thanks
Schuyler 62 Dodge Dart 440 wagon w/ Poly 318
 <http://www.1962to1965mopar.ornocar.org/ml-wrobel62.html>

On Apr 9, 2005, at 10:11 AM, Kevin Merkley wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I have been running my 313 poly engine since it was overhauled last
> spring and have a concern.
>
> Last spring I changed the cam bearings, crank bearings, con rod
> bearings, oil pump, timing gears and chain, and stock rings.
>
> When the engine gets warm and as it approaches operating temperature 
> the
> oil pressure drops dramatically.  At cold start the pressure is at 60
> psi.  At a hot idle (in neutral) the pressure is close to 10.  The
> manual states that at hot idle (500 rpm) the pressure should be a
> minimum of 20 psi.  The manual also states that at 1000 rpm the 
> pressure
> should be between 45-65 psi.
>
> At 1000 rpm I get 30 psi.
>
> The filter is new and the engine has about 2 hours running time on 
> since
> overhaul and approximately 10 miles.
>
> What are the likely problems that could cause the low oil pressure?
>
> btw, the engine sounds fine and does not knock or anything out of the
> ordinary.
>
> I am spooked and expect that after the car comes back from the paint
> shop it will have the engine yanked and torn apart again.  I'm not
> pleased but do not know what things to look for.
>
> Please help.
>
> Thanks.
>
> K.
>
>
> Kevin R. Merkley
> Thunder Bay, Ontario
> 64 Dodge 440 2dr HT (Cdn)