Still fighting the oil pressure demon.

BlownMGB-V8 · November 20, 2017, 10:23:55 PM

So a possible mismatch between the oil pump drive and the distributor then is it?

jaygerding · November 21, 2017, 03:04:21 PM

Just had a long conversation with Mike at T & A Performance about this problem. He is intrigued enough about it to request videos and pictures of what is happening. Unfortunately, that means tearing the front cover off and opening up the galley under the intake manifold.

So, this weekend that is what I will be doing.

Thanks for all of the input. I will keep you all informed as this moves on.

88v8 · November 21, 2017, 05:26:15 PM

Before you tear it out, do you have a Lucas dizzie to try? Even if it lacks its electrical innards you could see if it will prime.

Ivor

minorv8 · November 22, 2017, 05:15:32 AM

I had similar problem years ago when I bought an used Mallory Unilite dizzy. The oil pump gears were pre SD1. Mallory Dizzy was also supposed to be for pre SD1 pumps but someone had hacked the very end of the dizzy shaft away. So, Lucas Dizzy out and Mallory in. Started right up but did not have oil pressure. I knew immediately that there is an issue with the dizzy and was not too happy about the shaft mod.

So, I would double check the drive between the oil pump and distributor as already suggested.

jaygerding · November 23, 2017, 12:06:36 AM

As previously stated, this distributor and front cover worked just fine on the original 3.5 engine. Also, the mechanism at the bottom of the dist. is fully intact.

BlownMGB-V8 · November 23, 2017, 11:02:17 AM

What speed does your drill run at? The distributor and oil pump runs at half of crank speed. This could explain the difference. At 1000rpm the oil pump is only turning 500rpm. Many drills turn 2000rpm. Look for a leak on the suction side. It may be pulling air.

Jim

jaygerding · November 28, 2017, 05:29:43 PM

I talked at length with Woody from The Wedge Shop today. They have done dozens of these conversions. He made the point that it seems to be sucking air from somewhere in the block. He points out that if the oil pump, etc., were working fine on the 3.5, it is logical to assume this.

Today I opened the top galley under the intake manifold and observed what was happening as I ran the drill. Oil was getting to wherever it needed to be, just not enough. I will be dropping the oil pan this week (again) and try to take a closer look at what is happening under there.

I have started to buy my gaskets in quantity, just in case.

BlownMGB-V8 · November 28, 2017, 05:44:53 PM

Who woulda thunk it?