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Jul 21st, 2025 | | | | Joined: Nov 2004 Posts: 338 'Bolter | | 'Bolter Joined: Nov 2004 Posts: 338 | I just put a 53 235 in my 40 and I'm getting a zero pressure reading at the gauge.
I know that I'm getting oil up to the rockers so it would seem there's pressure.
Is there a way of testing the oil pressure and if so, what should it be? | | | | | Joined: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,388 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,388 | You can buy a cheap gauge and thread it into the fitting at the block where the factory gauge is connected, or into the Tee fitting where the oil filter is (if you've got one). I bought a gauge at FLAPS for $6. It only reads to 50 psi, and that's fine.
Have you run the engine with the rocker cover off to see the oil? - Just curious, not being a jerk, as sometimes the distributer doesn't drop down enough to engage the oil pump. (Ask me how I know this!)
On my 235, I get 30 psi at startup idle, and then when the engine is warm, about 5 psi at idle, and 25-30 at speed (40mph). The pressure varies a bit with the outside temp.
Last edited by Mr. Lang; 01/20/2013 7:10 PM.
| | | | | Joined: Mar 2002 Posts: 9,112 'Bolter | | 'Bolter Joined: Mar 2002 Posts: 9,112 | If it were me, I would pull the distributor and turn the oil pump with a drill. If that doesn't show pressure on the gauge I would check for a blockage wher the fitting comes out of the block. I have witnessed this problem when a buddy started his after he put it together. | | | | | Joined: Nov 2004 Posts: 338 'Bolter | | 'Bolter Joined: Nov 2004 Posts: 338 | Thanks guys, I'll give the drill a try and see what I get. | | | | | Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 328 'Bolter | | 'Bolter Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 328 | I bought a "mechanic's" oil pressure gauge some time ago; with a set of brass adapters to allow you to put it into your current sending unit location. It's got about an 18" flexible hose on it.
I always use it for initial startups and breaking periods BEFORE I install any original/aftermarket/ gauges or idiot lights on my projects. (New or old, I have found that they are not always the most accurate....)
I ran it for about 150 miles on my last project (under hood) before hooking up aftermarket gauge. (Turned out to be almost exactly correct, whew!)
Also, while we're at it... I always compare temp gauge readings with an infrared/laser, hand held thermometer. This allows you to move it around and check temps all over the engine, radiator, thermostat housings, etc.
Got sick of inaccurate temp gauges! I hate when they erroneously tell you it's overheating and you are freaking out on a hot summer cruise!
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