Low oil pressure/draining valve cover

[davj3368]

I recently replaced the o-ring on my 2000 Camry oil pump and, although the oil leak stopped, I now notice that in the morning my valves are 'dry' (clack for a few seconds on startup until oil is pumped in) and when the engine gets to around 3000 rpms I can hear the valves again.

Can someone tell me why this might be happening? I'm not losing oil, but it drains from the valve cover area (I'm assuming) and I apparently have low pressure...acts almost as if the oil strainer is clogging.

Anyway, I appreciate any input. I'm considering replacing the entire oil pump.

[Stillrunning]

What is your oil pressure and how long does it take to build pressure on start-up?

[davj3368]

only takes a second or two to build up pressure. Like I said, i can only hear the valve cams for a second or two on startup...and when I get to over 2500 rpms. Not losing oil though...

Could having too much oil in the engine cause problems? Just curious....

[Stillrunning]

Originally Posted by davj3368

only takes a second or two to build up pressure.

On an aftermarket gauge or with idiot light? I think idiot light only needs about 6-8 psi, it should almost go out immediately.

When you replaced the o-ring did you disassemble the oil pump gears? If memory is correct I think the driven gear can be reverse installed. That could be the problem as its wear pattern now does not fit with wear pattern of the driving gear. Also if you cleaned the gears and pump housing and did not use re-build grease on re-assemble that could have led to this problem as you would have had a dry start-up.

[Unco]

do you have enough oil in the engine? check your oil level.

if that doesn't fix it --> did this problem only start straight after you put the new o-ring???

if the problem was there before you replaced the o-ring, you may just need to use slightly thicker oil... what mileage has the engine done?