oil pressure question

[Alexey]

New Sprite owner here. In fact, I'm new to old cars period, so I'm not taking any of my current knowledge for granted. My question relates to what is considered healthy oil pressure and water temperature. This is my first season driving the car since purchasing it last fall. I was told by the previous owner that I should expect the oil pressure to be around 50 (arrow pointing straight up) and temperature around 170 (arrow pointing straight down). When cold, the pressure is around 60 and eventually drops to about 45-50 as the thermostat opens and starts registering water temperature. As I'm driving, it tends to stay that way, except I noticed it dip down to 40 when it runs a little hotter. As it does that, I've also seen it dip into high 20's at idle and go back up as soon as throttle is applied. I realize the oil tends to thin out with temperature, but is this normal? I noticed a minor leak, which was suggested might be from the rear main bearing. I haven't had time to really look at it, but would appreciate any tips in what to look for when I do an oil change and start going through the car more thoroughly.

 

[bugimike]

I would say that your oil pressure is fine and the variations you cite are normal for these cars. After being fully warmed up it is normal for the pressure to drop drop at idle and come back up with throttle! 170 is good for water temp, even a tad low! :thumbsup:

 

[Alexey]

I would say that your oil pressure is fine and the variations you cite are normal for these cars. After being fully warmed up it is normal for the pressure to drop drop at idle and come back up with throttle! 170 is good for water temp, even a tad low! :thumbsup:

Thank you very much.

 

[GB1]

I would say that your oil pressure is fine and the variations you cite are normal for these cars. After being fully warmed up it is normal for the pressure to drop drop at idle and come back up with throttle! 170 is good for water temp, even a tad low! :thumbsup:

 

[Trevor Jessie]

So... who is going to tell him about the lack of a rear oil seal?

 

[58Custom]

So... who is going to tell him about the lack of a rear oil seal?

Doesn't it become self-evident at 5500 RPM?

 

[zimmy]

if it isnt leakin you better top it
off, cause its empty! :wink:

will that do it guys? ........zimmmy