My '88 22R 4x2 has been taking longer than usual to build oil pressure. I had installed a cheap pump about 3k ago when I did the timing chain so I figured that was the problem. I just bought a new engnbldr high flow oil pump and I went to install it. The timing cover has scratches on it deep enough to feel. The old oil pump has some marks on it, but nothing I can feel.

Is this going to chew up my new pump? Do you think this is probably the cause of the oil pressure problem, not the oil pump?

 

Likely a combination of both. I would suggest replacing the timing cover if you are worried about it.

 

Here are some pictures of it.

 

Although I do not want to replace the new timing cover I installed 3k ago, it is probably the best idea. I guess it would be a good time to replace the leaky head gasket too.

 

I have seen a lot worse still make good pressure.Might need to take a look at your bearings.

 

It actually made good pressure, it just took longer than it should to build up when the truck was started. Sometimes it would take about 5 to 10 seconds before the gauge would even start to move. Once the pressure was up, it would stay up.

Is it possible for the bearings to be shot without knocking?

 

if you aren't running an aftermarket oil pressure gauge, bear in mind our factory ones are NOT very good! Mine hasn't worked for 10k miles at least. Alot of others have had issue with them as well. I would hook up a good mechanical oil press gauge and check your pressure that way before you start paying the money for parts that may not need to be replaced.....

 

Roger that.Sometimes senders get lazy.Mechanical gauge no lie.I went the other way and bought a nice melling oil pump for my overhaul.Just found out today the case is porous and is leaking right next to bolt. The cheapest damn oil pump made would be better than a melling IMO.

 

I am using an aftermarket gauge. The engine knocks until the oil pressure is up, so it appears to be working properly. When I installed the timing chain and oil pump, the pressure seemed to be fine. The problem started about 3000 miles after the timing chain job. I installed the aftermarket gauge because the oil light was flickering for a few seconds when I started the truck. The gauge showed the same as the light, slow to build pressure. The problem has gotten worse, so that is why I got a new oil pump.

 

sounds like worn bearings.I usually run a 15w40 when this problem rears its ugly head

 

Bad bearings? But the truck only has 265k on it! Some other people have also suggested that it might be the bearings, so it looks like it is probably time for a rebuild. Thanks for input.