The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Oil Pump Question on a '54 - 235

I am in the middle of replacing a babbit engine with a full pressure 235 from a 1954 Chevy 3/4T. I do not know the miles on this engine but from visual inspection it looks to be in good shape. Turning over the engine with the starter prior to taking it partially apart showed good oil flow at the top of the head. Is there any way to determine if the oil pump needs to be rebuilt or replaced prior to re-installing it and starting up the engine? Or due to the oil flow to the head it should be good to go as is?

Thanks,
Chevman

I'd go with it as is.

Many people always put in a new oil pump when they rebuild an engine.

Thanks!
That is kind of what I was thinking, but needed a second opinion. I am not ready to rebuild this truck yet...but just wanted to be able to get it around the yard under its own power.

chevman

If it has good flow to the valvetrain, it should be good. The other test will come when the engine is running. The pressure will then depend on several factors.

For oil, most of the manufacturers have removed most of the zinc, which is needed for proper camshaft lubrication. According to Shell, their Rotella diesel oil currently has enough zinc, and they do not have plans to change. So I am now recommending the use of Rotella 15W-40 in most flat-tappet cam engines.