Driving down I81 yesterday, at about 65MPH, engine started back firing, and shut off. (has low oil pressure shut off switch). Pulled off to the shoulder, engine started - valves clattering Shut it down. Most things I can find on the search pertains to 4 WD. Question is, can the oil pump be replaced without removing the engine? I'm about 600 miles away from my shop right now. I know about the usual stuff, removing motor mount bolts, jacking engine, etc. But, haven't done a 460 before. Hopefully there won't be any bearing damage (doubtful).
86,000 miles with C-6 trans.
Thanks for any advice and help.

 

Yes it can be done, but trust me, you'd rather pull the engine.

 

Thanks for the reply, Jeff. You're right. I'm hoping to be able to just replace the pump so I can nurse it back to NY. Of course I'd have to check the bearings, etc. Looking into other options to get it back home....

 

If your truck really has 87k on that motor, it's hard to believe that the oil pump just went out, itself.

They are beefy, in spec usually until something else forces an engine pull.

What's seems more likely, is either a broken oil pump drive shaft, or some other engine failure, possibly a bent pushrod, that allowed a lifter to leave it's bore.

You could pull the distributor, and take a look for the shaft.

If it seems intact, try the technique for priming an engine with priming drive rod on drill.

Or flatbed it home on a rail car.

 

Thanks for that info TB460. The driver's side rockers were clattering. Easier to check out on top, rather than crawling under. Been ducking rain over here.

 

All back together and running. Both pushrods were bent on #3 cylinder. One lifter almost out of the bore. Rockers were still torqued to specs, lifters seemed ok (replaced them anyway). Oil pump shaft ok. Used a 1/4 " drive socket and ext. hooked to a drill to check oil pressure
Seems I have a lot of smog stuff left over.......
Reps to you TB460

 

Excellent....Good luck!