[pc142]

Have a 1971 Cutlass with a 1970 455 new build. Comp 270 cam 42-308-4 olds magnum new lifters, all new valve train. All new bearings & oil pump.New radiator, hoses etc. At start up oil pressure is about 55+ lbs. The engine has a 180 degree thermostat but temp usually settles at about 195-205 degrees. Once the engine is hot the oil pressure drops considerably. Idle 4-5 lbs 1500-2000 RPM 25 lbs. Any thoughts? Checked rear galley plug, it seems fine. Noticed oil pump drive shaft had a broken piece of washer or snap ring on the shaft and laying next to the shaft. Used a magnet to pick up the pieces and ended up picking the whole shaft up and out out. Looks like the shaft was installed upside down! The manual says service shaft and washers as a unit. Is it not possible to just install proper washers/retainer? Don't think this would have affected my oil pressure? Will it harm anything to drive it this way for a couple of days? Thanks