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TR2/3/3A oil pressure TR3A

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NutmegCT

NutmegCT

Great Pumpkin
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Original engine, not rebuilt as far as I know.

170psi each cylinder. Fresh 20-50 Castrol in the sump and a new Purolator filter cartridge.

Warm engine, idles 800rpm, gauge shows 35-40psi oil pressure.

Warm engine, rev to 3000rpm, shows 50-55psi oil pressure.

Warm engine, rev to 3500, shows 60psi oil pressure.

Oil pressure readings really no different before or after the oil/filter change.

Manuals show 70psi at cruise.

Should I worry? Mechanic says I "might" raise pressure by screwing down the oil pressure release valve on the filter. Factory manual says "don't do that - it was set at factory".

Your thoughts?

Engine runs *great* by the way ....

Tom
 
Numbers look pretty good.

"If it ain't broke..."
 
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If you must play, start by verifying the accuracy of your OP gauge. They weren't all that accurate to begin with, and the calibration is bound to have drifted with the years. The movement relies on a brass tube flexing under pressure and the brass work-hardens ...
 
Yes, Tom. Those figures sound fine. My car runs similar pressures, but is up to 80psi when cruising at 3,000rpm. That is on a rebuilt engine that has covered about 18,000 miles. The difference between yours and mine could be nothing more than the inaccuracies of the gauges.
 
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Don't mess with it. The weathers too good this week anyway to be working on it. You should be driving it!

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Aloha Tom,

I concur, drive your car now. Your number are close to my TR3A. This winter, check the gauge for accuracy before doing anything else.
 
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