The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks 235 Oil Pressure

I recently installed a newly overhauled 235 engine into my '62 C10 Stepside. The SN's are only about 100 # apart. Anyway, here's what I did during the overhaul and subsequent installation: Took a '62 era 235 block, bored it .080 over, installed a "261" cam, "848" cylinder head, with Fenton Headers, an Offenhauser 2-2bbl intake, 2 Carter/Weber 2bbl carbs, and finally, a HEI ignition system.
We also fitted the block with the flow through oiling system using 1/4 steel line and a remote, spin-on oil filter. The engine starts and runs fine and I am delighted with the tractability of the entire setup. Here's my question: upon start, the oil pressure quickly comes off the peg and climbs to about 25 psi. From there, it rarely wavers; at least at idle. When the engine is fully warmed, the pressure drops to about 20 psi and stays there regardless of engine speed. Should I be concerned with the lack of fluctuation? Is the system working correctly? Your thoughts?

Is it the stock gauge and is it mechanical or elect, 20psi is survibable but it would be nice if around 35. Maybe the gauge in out of calibration??? Did you talk to the builder, did it get new cam bearings, what was the clearance on the rods/mains. Plumb in another mechanical gauge see if it reads better.

Thanks for the input; I have tried another gauge with the same results. Another member has said that the lines I installed to the spin-on oil filter are too small. Ok, I think he's got it right so tomorrow we're going to install 3/8 lines...that's what is specified in the "inliners" forum. It suggests that I will see up to 60 psi at full throttle and around 30 at idle. I'd be totally over the moon with those numbers. So, I'll let you know. Bottom line is that this is a new motor with all the good stuff on it and it starts and runs like a top. I've got many smiles per mile with it! :-)!! Yea!!!