The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Disassemble oil pump?

I have my '59 235 out and am in process of sorting out some things and detailing the engine. I have the oil pump removed and am questioning the need to take it apart and go through it. Oil pressure is good, and the screen is quite clean. Seems I'll need to use an impact driver to get the screws out, and am concerned about getting a replacement gasket.

Is it an absolute necessity to go through it? Some opinion based on experience out there would be welcome. Thanks!

Don

You need to check the internal parts for wear with a feeler gauge, and look for score marks on the bottom plate where the gears rotate. Also dismantle the relief valve and check it for freedom of movement and proper spring pressure. I've seen "good-looking" pumps that were severely worn or scored inside, and that allows oil to recirculate inside the pump. The result is reduced volume to the engine, and/or low oil pressure. A pump would have to measure out close to brand new before I'd ever reuse one on a rebuild. A new pump is cheap insurance on an expensive overhaul job!
Jerry

Got it Jerry. Thanks.
Don

Be careful of what quality gasket you use. In many pumps, the gears are flush with the pump body, and the gasket is the only end play. If your gears are recessed below the edge, 1 or the other should be replaced. The final end play should be .002" to .0025", even .003" is a bit loose.

So, to confirm Panic and Hotrod L; gear "ends" should be no more than .002-.003 below flush with the pump body flange? Do you guys have a good gasket source?

There is a slight scoring. Will that be ok given that the measurements check out?

thanks again.

I wouldn't accept any scoring. Buy a new one, be done with it, and sleep like a baby at night. Tearing it apart and giving it a good look-over was fun though , wasn't it?
Carl

No, the "down" distance PLUS the gasket's compressed thickness should be .002-.003".

Light score marks on the base plate can be lapped away using a piece of plate glass, 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper and motor oil. Use a figure 8 motion and keep polishing until the score marks are gone. A new pump is a much better idea.
Jerry