Long time to get oil pressure following oil change

jrwall · 06-13-2010, 06:40 PM

After I change the oil in my 1983 320i (1.8 liter) it takes a long time for the oil pressure light to go out on the dash (around a minute). After this each time I start the car the light goes out within a few seconds. Is this an indication that the pump is worn and doesn't prime well. Is it time to replace the pump? Thanks for responding.

John

JhwShark · JhwShark's Garage

How many miles?
It makes sense to prime the pump when changing oil due to the draining out of the pump. Next time pull the + lead off the dist and crank the starter (it wont start with the + off) a few times but not constant crank (don't want to over heat the starter/solenoid). This can prime the pump and get oil up to the head. Then plug the lead back on the dist and start. The light should behave.
If you have good oil pressure the pump should be OK.
Jon

jrwall · 06-20-2010, 10:34 AM

I changed the oil pump somewhere between 137K and 150K miles. The 320i now has 212K miles. I am in the process of pulling the engine out of the car to drill and retap a couple of alternator bracket bolts that have broken in the block. I am debating on replacing the oil pump at a $200 pump cost plus gaskets while I have the engine out. The engine runs beautifully, does not consume oil, passes emissions, and barely drips oil, so I am not looking to fix an engine that is working so well. Thanks for any advice you may want to provide.

jrwall · 06-20-2010, 10:42 AM

I own and maintain the following cars

1980 Fiat X1/9 63K
1983 BMW 320i 212K
1987 BMW 535is 197K
1990 SAAB 900 SPG 165K

I complete all my own work unless I am really stumped and tech forums don't help to get me there. I have been successful in keeping them all in running condition, and with good condition bodies (no rust, no collision damage, paint uniform shine). I have owned the 320i the longest, purchased with 137K miles in 1995. Thanks.

JhwShark · JhwShark's Garage

If it's not broken why fix...it's up to you. I don't remember configuration of your pump; it has been years for me on a 320i. Is there a chain that drives the pump, if soI'd replace that as well...but I probably wouldn't open up the block unless...
Jon