garnersplc_2001

My newly purchased 88 conv. has low oil pressure compared to my new 87 engine.
The 88 has about 10-15 PSI at idle and around 40 at freeway speeds (60 MPH) and gets up to almost 55 PSI at 4000 RPMs.
My new 87 has slightly over 70 PSI at 3000-3500 RPMs
and easily is 60+ PSI at freeway speeds (60 MPH).
Both have fresh 20-50 castrol.
Should I just ignore the pressure differences and chalk it up to differences in gages and sending units or is there a problem with the 88?
The 87 had better oli pressure even before the engine went to RX-7 heaven.

J-Rat

iTrader: (2)

HAs the 88 always ran that way? Or is this a recent change?

garnersplc_2001

I just got it a little over a week ago. Maybe the thermal pellet?

J-Rat

iTrader: (2)

that IS possible, but there is another writeup on the Mazdatrix site that may shed some light on it.. Do a search for low oil pressure, you might come up with some good stuff...

garnersplc_2001

ok, I'll check it out now. Looked at how accessible the pellet is, doesn't look too bad, maybe just removing the fan and leaving the shroud in place. The 19mm bolt in the pulley seems fairly easy to get to. The shroud looks like a pain to get out, hopefully I can work around it and just shim up the pellet if its not retracting fully.

J-Rat

iTrader: (2)

Just remember to put a 2x4 on your clutch pedal, holding it down when you remove your E-shaft bolt. Or your Torrington bearing will be toasted

garnersplc_2001

Thanks for the advice, never even thought about that.
I was going to just leave it in neutral.... and kick it over with the starter for a split second. ouch!!

HAILERS

Swap sending units first. And even better, install a mechanical gauge temporarily in each car (same mech gauge) and compare.

If you have taps, tap a hole into the rear oil line banjo bolt and install the temp mech gauge there.

Stock oil gauges and sending units are suspect in my mind and experience.