Dave138
NAXJA Forum User
- Location
- Phoenix, Arizona
Hello. First time posting. I apologize if this has already been discussed on the forum, I did a search and couldn't find anything. I have a lot of questions that I hope some of you will be able to answer. Anyway...
97 XJ
4.0 I6
150,XXX
I picked up a used XJ about a month ago which has been having a low oil pressure issue (cold start 40psi, hot 1600rpm 21psi, hot idle 8ish psi) that I think may be related to sludge in the oil pick-up screen. This may be wishful thinking on my part because I am not currently financially prepared to have bearings replaced, engine rebuilt or replaced. What I'm planning on doing is pulling the oil pan and checking it all out, but I'm a huge noob and could use a little guidance.
Here goes it.
1. If the screen is caked with sludge what is the recommended method for cleaning it? I've read that if you remove the tube you need a special tool to get it back in and should replace the gasket in the oil pump, if that's the case would it be best just to purchase a new tube?
2. If there is significant sludge in the pick-up tube, should I clean or swap out the oil pump? I've heard that replacing the oil pump is rarely necessary, but would a repair kit from NAPA be worth while?
3. While I'm in there I've also read that I should plastigage. Any recommendations for doing this from underneath the engine? To do this I'll need to buy a Haynes manual so I know the right clearances and I'll also need to buy some tools.
Thanks for any advice you're able to give.
97 XJ
4.0 I6
150,XXX
I picked up a used XJ about a month ago which has been having a low oil pressure issue (cold start 40psi, hot 1600rpm 21psi, hot idle 8ish psi) that I think may be related to sludge in the oil pick-up screen. This may be wishful thinking on my part because I am not currently financially prepared to have bearings replaced, engine rebuilt or replaced. What I'm planning on doing is pulling the oil pan and checking it all out, but I'm a huge noob and could use a little guidance.
Here goes it.
1. If the screen is caked with sludge what is the recommended method for cleaning it? I've read that if you remove the tube you need a special tool to get it back in and should replace the gasket in the oil pump, if that's the case would it be best just to purchase a new tube?
2. If there is significant sludge in the pick-up tube, should I clean or swap out the oil pump? I've heard that replacing the oil pump is rarely necessary, but would a repair kit from NAPA be worth while?
3. While I'm in there I've also read that I should plastigage. Any recommendations for doing this from underneath the engine? To do this I'll need to buy a Haynes manual so I know the right clearances and I'll also need to buy some tools.
Thanks for any advice you're able to give.