Hi Guys,
I'm into a few things and could use some help. I came across a '68 98 that I have been working on. I replaced the head gaskets (thought they were leaking but it was a freeze plug) and am reassembling.

I wanted to test the oil pump to make sure it was pumping oil so I ran the starter for about 30 seconds with the intake manifold off and there is no oil getting to the rocker arms through the lift rods. Is 30 seconds enough time? Does the intake need to be on for the oil to get to the valves?

Any thoughts greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
T

 

30 seconds, is probably not enought time. I would remove the distributor and use a oil punp primer tool. Remember go counter clock wise.Don't need the intake on to get oil pressure.

 

I use a 1/4" drive ratchet, extension with deep well 5/16" socket taped onto it with duct tape. You will feel resistance as it pumps oil, and hear the oil squirting out of orifices inside the engine.

 

http://www.realoldspower.com/phpBB2/...ic.php?t=84009

Olds Performance Products sells them.

 

I harnessed my inner "McGyverism" and welded 2 oil pump driveshafts together. Drop it into the oil pump and the 2nd shaft makes it long enough to chuck into a cordless drill. Works well, no chance of dropping a socket into the engine.

 

Thanks for ideas. Wound up ordering one from Autozone for $20. Worked well as oil came up through pushrods. When I turned it over the oil dripped out at a slow rate. I figure when engine is at higher RPM's than cranking it will be fine.

One silly and embarrassing question is if the heads are swappable from side to side? As embarrassing as it is I didn't mark left and right. Stupid me. They appear symmetrical (although there are different letters on the casting) however this is just the type of assumption I can see biting me in the butt? Are they swappable??

 

They are swappable.