Background:
I have an 88 with a 302 automatic. I noticed that the idiot gauge (oil) was stuck on the low side or less so I bought an oil pressure gauge hoping it was the sender that was problematic. The new unit shows that I get between 20 - 30lbs and regardless of RPM range it never goes above 35. I thought I read somewhere that I should be getting 10lbs per 1000 RPM. Is this right? Do I have a problem here? What should the upper range of oil pressure be on a "normal" 302?

My gto (yes I know it is an evil GM machine)gets much higher oil pressure then my truck does so I'm beginning to talk myself into thinking I've got bearing/pump trouble.

 

You shouold get at least 45 psi at 2000 rpm. If your pressure at idle (hot) is about 15-20 psi, chances are you have an oil pump problem rather than worn bearings. If idle pressure is less than 10 psi problem could be worn bearings or a bad pump. In general, pumps seldom go bad. Might try heavier oil (30W) to see if the pressure comes up. If so, continue to run it be expect an engine job in time. Your engine still has plenty of life in it if it is not pushed too hard.
Good Luck

 

Generally speaking Fords have always been notorious for low op. Personally I wouldn't expect 45 psi at 2k from a Bronco. I wouldn't be too concerned about top pressure, but rather your lowest reading at idle when hot. If you've got at least 10 psi at hot idle, you're doing good IMO. Ford set the idiot gauge to peg at under 4.5lbs.

 

Did you change the Sending unit for the idiot light to the PROPER sending unit for the GAUGE ??


Dennis

I'm the guy with all of the GIFS and I'm not afraid of using them !


78 F-150 429CJ C6 ,Silver w/Explorer Pkge
641/2 Mustang,Pre-World's Fair Car #8092
64 Fairlane S/C waiting for a 390-4spd.
68-Mustang.Sunlit Gold 80,000 miles

 

I replaced the factory "gauge" (I use that term loosely it is a low/high indicator) with a proper aftermarket gauge that tells me PSI.

When doing so I removed the old sending unit and installed the fitting that came with the gauge (it is a mechanical) unit and have the wire to the factory gauge dangling (the factory one is now in-operable).