Just got done installing a rebuilt 215 (rings, bearings, pistons, the works) in my TR8, partly due to a low oil pressure. Just got it started and I'm still showing only in the high 20's for pressure. I know these engines existed on ridiculously low O.P., but this in a fresh engine still seems low. I guess my next look is at the oil pump, which I thought looked pretty good. Any thoughts out there?
That would no doubt boost the pressure but not sure if that's addressing the problem or the symptom. Oh well, there's only one way to find out. Thanks!
Cam bearings did you replace the camshaft bearings? check the pump gear clearance? hows your oil bypass spring and plunger? whats the pressure @ idle ,hot/cold idle RPM standard oil pressure is 35psi@2400rpm
I bought the engine via ebay and the seller said "everything" had been done, but didn't have the shop records. It definitely has new rods, pistons and cam and tappets. Cam bearings?? From the looks of it, it looks like a pretty decent job. Ran the engine today and after warmup, O.P. was in the 15-20 range at idle. Didn't check it at 2400 so maybe I'd gain a few psi's there. Maybe that's my problem, I'm just reading the spec's wrong. I love these engines, I'm just used to oil pressures in the 70-80 range. Assuming everything is new and done right, that pretty much leaves the pump as the culprit, right? I'm going to give D&D a call on Monday and at the very least get a pump rebuild kit and more likely a high output one. I'll keep you all posted on the results.
Cheapsnake, Hi that oil pressure is fine, bang on the mark for a 215/Rover. With the 215/Rover flow is much more important than pressure, I've seen very healthy engines with only 12psi at tickover. Best thing to do is use a really cheap 20/50 oil and change it every 2000 miles. I run a fairly high spec Rover and only ever use the cheapest 20/50 I can find.......loves it Rossco ps....dont be tempted into using semi-synthetic or fully-synthetic oil......it kills 215's as it's too thin for the pump to move effectively.
You mean I've been fretting and whining over this all this time for nothing? If that's the case, great! I just remember instructing my daughter after I had installed a gauge on her VW Rabbit, "Let me know if the pressure ever drops below 40 psi." Then one very hot day after a long run it momentarily drops to 39, she shuts it down and calls me for for further instructions. Like they say, insanity is hereditery...you get it from your kids. Thanks everyone for your help. I'll keep you posted.
