No Pressure SixI have a '66 Mustang with a six-cylinder 200 engine, automatic transmission that I am working to make a daily driver. I drove it for a couple of years until I noticed rust appearing in the floor pans and over one quarter panel. It has been in the garage for about a year. When I parked it, the oil pressure was fine and I start and run it for 5 to 10 minutes every week. Recently, I noticed the oil pressure was 0, the gauge did not move. I flushed out the oil system using Gunk Flush and replaced the oil-sending unit. Now the gauge moves, but just barely into the safe range. Any suggestions about ways to check the oil gauge or wiring from the sending unit? Is there a way to check the oil pump without pulling the pan?
I read Mustang Monthly and your article concerning quarter-panel replacement was right on target. I am using the information to replace my right quarter panel. Thanks for your help.Donnie NorwoodOdessa, TX
Such low pressure is indeed a concern and should be checked before using the vehicle. I'd suggest you substitute a mechanical oil pressure gauge for the stock electrical gauge in order to read the pressure directly. This will tell you if the problem is with gauge or actually low oil pressure in the engine.
I'd suggest you purchase an inexpensive oil-pressure gauge at your local parts store. I found one for under $15 and use it just for testing purposes. Remove the stock sending unit from the engine and temporarily install the mechanical gauge under the hood, using the fittings included with the new gauge. Run the engine and observe the oil pressure. Hot oil pressure of at least 10 pounds at idle and 25-30 pounds at approximately 2,000 rpm is enough for an everyday street-driven vehicle.
If your pressure is below the accepted level then I'd suggest you consider an engine rebuild. Low oil pressure is usually a product of bearing wear and rarely the oil pump itself. Sometimes when an engine sits for long periods, acids in the oil attack engine bearings, so it's important to keep fresh oil in the engine during storage.