Quick Oil Pressure/Gauge Question

[HardcoreZ28]

I just tried firing up my IROC after it having the top end off for 8 months due to a broken rocker stud. As soon as I started it I shut it down because I got no oil pressure at the gauge. I replaced the sending unit 9 months ago when I put this new engine in (yes it broke on initial startup) but is it possible it went bad from sitting and having assembly lube and everything else still in the engine?

I primed the oil system with the proper tool before dropping the distributor in and could feel the pressure in the oil cooler hoses so I know it's pumping oil atleast somewhat.

Just want to doublecheck my thinking here......as long as I feel pressure in both sides of the cooler lines I can assume it's a sending unit/gauge problem and atleast run the engine long enough to set my timing correct?

[BonzoHansen]

You sure the gauge is wired right? Did you use tape on the threads - I have read guys having ground issues using tape instead of pipe dope.

[Fast92RS]

Yes make sure you didnt use teflon tape. It causes ground issues and can get into the oil system and may clog a oil passege.

[HardcoreZ28]

The gauge worked last time the car ran and the sender wasn't removed since then.

[BonzoHansen]

Gauge has power?

[HardcoreZ28]

Nevermind....upon further inspection the distributor isn't seated properly in the block and isn't turning the pump. Thankfully I didn't run it for more than a few seconds. I'll fix it this weekend when it's not raining.

[BonzoHansen]

:Whew: