Adequate oil pressure?
 

I just had an engine builder tell me that my 1998 454 Mag MPI (185 hrs) is "on the way out" because I'm only seeing 20psi of oil pressure w/ 20W-50 at DEAD IDLE after a hard run. I'm using Amsoil Series 2000 20W-50.

Anything above idle and I see 40psi+.

I've always been told my pressure is fine and that the pressure will be lower sometimes with the syn oils. What do you guys think?

Ric,
Those numbers are right where you want them to be. I would put the builders comments in the "premature" category.
Bob

Sounds ok to me......................... I mean wait YES it is garbage you MOST build a 600 HP motor for your boat. :D

Rag's :D

I have the same engine and same oil pressure from what I can remember (sorry haven't had it out this season yet) I have 160hrs on mine so we're pretty close. I agree with rmbuilder.....take that advice with a grain of salt.....if your engine is on it's way out I guess mine is also.

I certainly would not take that engine builder any work. Those #'s are fine.

I agree... adequate pressure...

Those pressures are fine for the 454 !!!!!

:cool:

Any one got data on HP500. Mine stays at about 60 when up and 35 to 40 at idle.

According to the Merc manual that came with my motor (97 454 Mag MPI), Oil pressure can be as low as 8psi at idle. That sounds low but that is what the book says. I think I idle around 20 psi and run about 40 psi above idle.

I wish I had 20 psi at idle hot. Depends a lot on oil temp too. That builder is trying to drum up business, not give you good advice.

I have to agree with your engine builder. That motor has no more than 700-900 hrs left in it.
:D

Everyone worries about oil pressure... but I don't ever hear concerns about flow or volumn.... I work on old Aston Martins.... those owners measure the length of their dicks by how much oil pressure they have.... a new or fresh 4 liter six makes 125 lbs oil pressure when cold 80 to 100 when hot... and they have around 40 to 60 when at idle... even when hot.... all because of poor engineering... they have to run high oil pressures like that because the oil passages are so poorly designed.

Get yourself another engine man, one that's not concerned with lining his pockets with your money.

Re: Adequate oil pressure?
 

glad I searched for this problem, as Ric232 is talking about the same year/model engine I have. It just started dropping below 40 psi (when at idle, either warm or cold) the last few times I've taken her out.

once we get out of the marina and give her the gas, it hover's around 40 - 50 psi on Fari(sp?) gauges. I'm concerned since the engine temp is higher than normal as well (i.e. 175 - 200 F). Thought it might be a coincidence, but figured I'd ask you experts.

It has about 25 hours since the last oil change and the oil is full and still rather clean. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!


thanx.

Re: Adequate oil pressure?
 

My numbers are like Dave M. I wonder why some engines never see much over 40 psi? Is this the oil pump bypass spring or just how the engine bearings are set up?

thanks