Questions and Answers

Plymouth Voyager Engine Oil Pressure Q. I have a 1991 Plymouth Voyager SE, with a 3.3 Liter V-6, Overdrive transmission and over 130,000 miles on the odometer. I recently had the engine overhauled because the rocker arm assembly on one head broke. After the engine was overhauled and installed, I noticed that the oil pressure gauge, was jumping up and down.

The mechanic that did the overhaul, went back into the engine and found the oil pump to be faulty. He replaced the pump and since putting the van back on the road, I find that the oil pressure does not register at the median level.

Also, when I accelerate, I see the needle on the gage move up, but when the engine is at idle and in drive, the needle drops down so that the bell and CHECK GAGES light comes on. I recently read your response to the PUMP UP THE OIL question and will advise the mechanic to check this out. Is there any other reason why I'm not getting the appropriate oil pressure?

Peter

A. I made a list of possible causes of low oil pressure for you.

Possible Causes	Correction
Low oil level.	Check engine oil level.
Faulty oil pressure sending unit.	Install new sending unit.
Low oil pressure.	Check sending unit and check main bearing oil clearance.
Clogged oil filter.	Install new oil filter.
Worn parts in oil pump.	Replace worn parts or pump.
Thin or diluted oil.	Change oil to correct viscosity.
Excessive bearing clearance.	Measure bearings for correct clearance.
Oil pump relief valve stuck.	Remove valve and inspect, clean and install.
Oil pump suction tube loose, bent cracked, or blocked.	Remove oil pan and install new tube, or clean if necessary.
Oil pump cover warped or cracked.	Install new oil pump.