‘71 Superbee 440 high oil pressure

[Jeff Erwin]

My Superbee has a replacement 440, was a 383 from the factory. Dash and instruments are all original. The oil pressure gauge reads near the high end of the dial at all times, sometimes moves a bit but not much. Is it possible it’s reading high because of the 440 vs. original 383? Is there any way to adjust or test these?

 

[Don Frelier]

It's reading pressure doesn't have anything to do with the motor swap.
There are two ports on the rear of the block near the firewall. You should be able to remove one plug and install a fitting and tubing for a mechanical gauge.
Find real numbers and then you can get some comments on where you are.
You may need a different spring in the oil pump.

 

[Jeff Erwin]

Does the high oil pressure affect anything? Engine runs beautifully (at least until #7 plug wire pops off) and doesn’t use oil. Just not sure what is affected.

 

[Ironbuilt]

As Don said, check the oil pressure with a quality mechanical gauge. Get an accurate number at start-up, idle and at cruising RPMs, then go from there.

 

[Don Frelier]

Does the high oil pressure affect anything? Engine runs beautifully (at least until #7 plug wire pops off) and doesn’t use oil. Just not sure what is affected.

If it really is high, then you are working the intermediate shaft hard. It can wear the bushing that it rides on or it can possibly twist and break down where it drives the pump. So yes it can be too high.

 

[1967coronet]

Just a FYI, if you purchase a mechanical oil gauge and remove your electric sender from the back of the block for a test.......
Make sure you use the little brass inline insert and brass ferrel at both ends.
Most all mechanical gauges will come with plastic oil line and that's fine for a test.
If you wish to make a permanent gauge out of it get a braided or copper line.