New oil filter, new oil pressure...!

I've traditionally run Baldwin 474 oil filters on my 73 Commando. Got sick of puncturing the old filter with a screwdriver to wrest it off, and tried a K&N 153 (standard for most Ducatis, so I had a few in the garage for my SS).

Seems to work fine, but since installation my oil pressure is consistently about 7-10 PSI higher at all times (yes, I run an oil pressure gauge, and yes, I'm pretty anal about keeping track of oil pressure at all times....).

Not excessive (maybe 55 PSI first thing starting up but drops off fairly quickly), 45 or so underway hot, and 15 or so at hot idle. All of this is maybe 7-10 PSI higher than "usual."

Good, bad, or indifferent? Thanks, Brian.

Brian,
I wouldn't have thought the filter should have any effect on the oil pressure as it's in the return leg? Unless it's a lot more restricitive and the returm is back feeding through the pump, couldn't do that could it?

Cash

If the oil pump has been losing pressure from the feed to the return then this could be possible if the new filter is more restrictive, if so the oil pump shaft or shaft bore is worn, time for an O ring on the shaft if you go back to the old filter.

Thanks guys. Going into the timing chest soon to install automatic cam chain tensioner, so I'll have a look at the oil pump while I'm there.

BrianK said:

Going into the timing chest soon to install automatic cam chain tensioner, so I'll have a look at the oil pump while I'm there.

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Which would be an ideal opportunity to lap the pump to zero end float.

Les, I'm game! Anywhere you can point me for how-to's on that process? I did see a great set of photo-instructions on oilpump gear-lapping by Norbsa that I intend to follow - is that what you meant? Any other suggestions will be much appreciated!

And we all know that this project means an upcoming series of 'help-me!' postings about various related nut removal, thread-restoring, what-the-heck-have-I-done, and other subjects which will be a wonderful primer for the newbies among us and showcase for Christian charity among the experienced usual suspects...thanks in advance, guys and gal(s).

Just want you guys to know, I drive 'em nuts on the airhead, Ducati, Harley, and Triumph boards as well (all of whom have wonderful folks but I still think this board is the best - and I mean that sincerely) - BrianK

BrianK said:

I did see a great set of photo-instructions on oilpump gear-lapping by Norbsa that I intend to follow - is that what you meant?

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Yes follow Norbsa's instructions (and/or your manual's) for lapping the pump.

Thanks Les, will do. - BrianK