Thread: RRC 3.5V8 Oil Supply Problem - Help

Thanks Phil,

I've removed the sump and the pick up looks good. I've cleaned the face that goes to the block on a wet stone block to make sure it's very very flat.

The pressure relief valve was fully pressed as far as the spring would push it. The spring appeared strong and straight and it went back it again. There was no gum and no nicks that might cause it to stick. In fact I've been very impressed by how clean the engine is at the bottom end.

I'll carry out a few more inspections, and then remove the pump again.

I know it's character building, but in the back ground I've got the salary packaging people at work crunching numbers on a D2. Worst case scenario, I can't fix this and I replace a 22 year old V8 with a 7 year old Diesel 7 seater.

I hope I can fix it though.

The pump and the sump came off again and were put back on again.

I expected it to run okay, but the problem persisted. I removed the oil pressure sender and nothing squirted out.

I left it for a day, to contemplate and consult.

Then I pulled the nut off the pressure release valve, removed the spring, and with a screw driver pushed the plunger in an extra millimeter. That did it! Now I have oil pressure. A quick check by backing off the filter resulted in a litre of oil on my driveway! Now to double check the oil level and hope that the rattles were not terminal, but can be soothed with some oil.

Now everyone reading this thread will understand what "relief valve is STUCK" means. It takes a firm hand to shift it when the spring won't. Been there, done that!