Low Oil Pressure

[pajerry]

Hey all,

Ever since my two week christmas drive to Calgary and back my oil pressure light has been flickering on for a a second or two when I cold start it. I say coldstart, but really 10degree's or more in a parkade. I know this isn't huge, but I was worried that being at start up, this could lead to something more serious down the road?


Something that may or may not be related is that the crappy aftermaket rocker cover seal I bought is leaking again spitting oil at highways speeds (thought I haven't gone that fast since the trip).

Any tips on how to prevent the rocker cover seal and halfmoons from leaking again?? Specific brand product maybe? I've tried a gasket maker sealer, this aftermaket seal from Max OD, the old seal, but they all want to leak and make a bloody mess!

Any help appreciated!

[thedjjack]

It maybe the oil filter. Some have a valve to keep them from emptying when the motor is off.

If the filter empties you will get the light during start up as the filter fills.

[FalcoColumbarius]

Have you checked your oil level?

[pajerry]

The oil level is fine and the filter is the same I usually buy (forget the brand). I change oil every 4-5000kms, use shell rotella 15w40, currently with 5w40 for the Calgary cold.. still 1000kms+ left before scheduled maintenance.

Does anyone know which brand of gasket fits best for the 4m40?

[pajerry]

It maybe the oil filter. Some have a valve to keep them from emptying when the motor is off.

If the filter empties you will get the light during start up as the filter fills.

Thats exactly how its 'feels' but its the same filter I usually get and I haven't had the issue before. I should mention that it is a little shaky for the second when the light flickers. Sometimes more than others, and when warm that day, not at all.

Thanks.

[thedjjack]

Oil pressure lights are not the greatest...Gauge would be better (light comes on at low pressure like 5psi or something).

Same brand filter does not mean that the current one has bad valve (I am pretty sure they have the valve in them). Unscrew filter, screw new filter add 1/2 litre oil test.

Not sure if the pump has a valve to keep oil in it as well could be the oil pump leaking down??

It is worth putting oil pressure gauge in to be sure. Gauge cheep.

Shaking is probably a cylinder starting up later then the others.

[mr.pj]

Oil filters have a bypass valve to allow oil flow if the filter is plugged. The filter being plugged is a possibility and may cause the oil light to flicker some until the oil starts flowing. I would change the filter and see.

[pajerry]

Thanks guys, I'll let you know after my next service. I never don't daily drive it, so it may be a while. Any fear of damage or wear/tear from this or am I just paranoid?


If someone has tips for the rocker cover seals, let me know!