1989 Dodge Ram 50 low oil pressure

[mscoles]

This is happening occasionally now only when its warm or hot. When vehicle is restarted it will occasionally not have any oil pressure for sometimes up to 10 20 seconds and then the oil pressure comes up, anyone have any ideas. Engine does have a lot of miles on it around 240,000. Put new bearings in it at around 180,000.

[geezer101]

This possibly could be as a result of heat soak after the engine has been shut down and restarted. The oil will thin out when it gets hot - maybe change the grade of oil you're using especially with it being a high miler. IIRC I read somewhere that oil loses 10w viscosity @ 100 degrees.

[claych]

Put new 'bearings' in it at around 180,000
^
With respects- balance shafts bearings also ?

[geezer101]

^
With respects- balance shafts bearings also ?


Balance shaft bearings are a primary oil pressure failure cause. These bearings are exposed to way more wear and tear than main or bottom end bearings.