After getting my 1966 Skylark running after 24 years stored in a shed, the oil pump has packed it in. The oil light came on and stayed on so I hooked up an Autometer mechanical oil pressure gauge, fired her up and zero pressure registered on the gauge. I'm now considering changing the oil pump and timing cover to hopefully remedy this and save the motor. Other than that the motor ran great...Has anyone out there gone through this or have replaced an oil pump and timing cover who could give me some advice, suggestions or tips. I'm looking at the oil pump & timing cover kit offered by TA Performance to use for this or does anyone have another alternate option? Thank you in advance for any help.
Your oil pump didn't break from sitting for 24 years, it lost its prime. Remove the filter and pour/squirt oil into the filter nipple, then fill filter with oil and try again.
What Mark says is correct, but, I would also drain the oil and pour 1/2 gallon of kerosene, mineral spirits or diesel fuel in the crank case and let it soak for a week or so. Drain it out and chase it with another 1/2 gallon of your chosen solvent with the drain plug out, let that drain for an hour or so,then dump a quart of cheap motor oil (if there is such a thing) through, with the plug still out, to chase the remaining solvent out. Put the drain plug back in and fill the crank case with new oil. Take the cover off the oil pump off and fill the pump cavity with Vasiline and replace the cover with the CORRECT GASKET. You should be good to go at this point.
Much thanks to @Mark Demko and @philbquick for the great advice. I haven't had time to trying your recommendations as of yet but hopefully by New Year, look forward to giving it a try.
@LARRY70GS , much appreciation Larry for the info. Great bunch of knowledgeable members here helping us newbies with their know how and experience. Cheers! Will
Considering your zero start up oil pressure, the lost prime in oil pump sounds correct but before I started my engine again, I would buy or borrow a oil prime tool. Pull distribution after marking location (very easy), prime with tool using drill. A lot of damage can occur fast with no oil pressue. Picture of tool attached.
