Great question.. I just installed a new muffler so I am still getting used to all of the noises. That being said, I dont think I heard anything unusual when I lifted the hood. What type of noise should I be listening for if it's a low oil pressure issue?
The first sign of low oil or low oil pressure in most engines is an increase in lifter noise - a lot of clattering. I've heard it said that hydraulic lifters have saved more engines than oil pressure gauges or oil lights.Originally Posted by Simpsomt
The other noise I have heard when oil pressure gets very low is a solid thunk-thunk from down deep in the engine - a lot deeper toned "thunk" than ignition knock.
You drive an old Jeep as much by your senses as any gauges. You listen for strange new noises. You feel different vibrations. You smell fuel leaks or the sharp oil smell of gear lube vs. the normal fumes from the little oil leak around the valve lifter cover.
Crap - I just started it and am hearing a lot of noise. The dipstick says it's full of oil. Should I drain out the oil and start investigating? Any recommendations?
I hate to try to troubleshoot by email and remote control = I almost always never have all the information I would like.
A. If you have not changed the oil, by all means do so. Look at the oil you drain out. Is it all oil? Is there water in it? Does it have gas in it? Water and anti-freeze whip up into a frothy mess that mixes in the oil. Do you see any metal shavings in it? I'd change the filter as well.
B. Can you get an oil pressure gauge that you can connect into the plug where the oil sensor mounts? That will tell you if you have oil pressure or not. At idle even 10 PSI should be enough to prevent engine damage, but you should see 30 PSI for a good engine. Low pressure could be oil pump, or badly worn bearings internally.
This is starting to look like more than we can do as an email troubleshoot - you might need to get a mechanic to look it over. In an hour or so he can probably give you a good idea of what is going on in that engine,
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