How long should it take to build oil pressure?

[tmorgan4]

I finally cranked over my VH45 for the very first time using the power of the starter. I pulled the fuel pump fuse because I didn't want to start it, but I was trying to crank it over a little at a time until I saw the oil pressure start to build.

At this point, I'm very concerned that something is wrong somewhere in the oil system. I cranked over the engine in 3-4 second intervals at least 10-12 times and my oil pressure gauge still hasn't moved. I'm very concerned that the assembly lube is going to wear off and do some serious damage.

When I put in 6.5 quarts of 10W30 in the pan and filled the oil filter about half full before putting it on. This shouldn't be the problem.

Does this seem acceptable that I'm still seeing zero oil pressure?

[elwesso]

On my Q it takes a while.. Do you have the idiot light hooked up? that goes off at 3-4PSI.. im not sure if your gauge would have that kind of resolution?

I'd start it and shut it down if it doesnt build pressure running in about 3 seconds.

[Mettler]

I've been thinking about whether it's possible to pre-pump oil throughout the block with the front cover off by spinning up the oil pump using an airtool... and then finish the assembly of the motor before cranking it over.

Good luck!

[T45]

It was a pain but before I started mine I took all the plugs out and disconnected the fuel pump and turned it over that way. It took about 10-15 seconds to build up but once it did it went to 20psi. I kept it cranking for about 10 more seconds and put everything back together. Worked like a charm. You could actually hear the engine get easier to turn immediately after the oil pressure went up.

[sijoko]

I finally cranked over my VH45 for the very first time using the power of the starter. I pulled the fuel pump fuse because I didn't want to start it, but I was trying to crank it over a little at a time until I saw the oil pressure start to build.

At this point, I'm very concerned that something is wrong somewhere in the oil system. I cranked over the engine in 3-4 second intervals at least 10-12 times and my oil pressure gauge still hasn't moved. I'm very concerned that the assembly lube is going to wear off and do some serious damage.

When I put in 6.5 quarts of 10W30 in the pan and filled the oil filter about half full before putting it on. This shouldn't be the problem.

Does this seem acceptable that I'm still seeing zero oil pressure?

It takes a good 1-2 seconds before my oil pressure gauge even moves and that's with European Castrol 0w-30, so I would say that is normal. If the oil is cold, it is going to take even longer.

I say pre-heat the oil with a heater aimed toward the pan and then start it with an oil pressure gauge hooked up.

[tmorgan4]

I did a little research on the subject last night and found a bunch of good information.

Ford manufacturers what they call a "pre-oiler" setup for nearly $300. All it does is pump the oil through the port where your pressure sending unit goes.

It seems like a very good solution for this problem. I made a cheaper version of this setup today but didn't get to test it out. All you need is a pressurized tank with with a port on the bottom to connect a hose to.

A few guys on other forums mentioned they pumped all 5-6 quarts through their engine this way before starting it with good success. I might have to drain the oil and try putting it in this way.

[perana]

a pre-oiler is the way to go.i only used it on rebuilt,long standing motors.very simple to make.this is by far the best bit of equipment i own.