Oil is essential for the engine to run smoothly. It lubricates the moving parts and absorbs excess heat, hence protecting the engine from damage.
It is therefore essential to ensure that oil is well distributed throughout the engine. This is where the use of oil pumps comes in to play.
An oil pump helps in circulating oil, thus keeping your engine in prime condition. In case of a pump malfunction, most engine parts may wear or burn out due to friction.
Common Symptoms of Oil Pump Failure
The oil light indicator on the dashboard is designed to notify you of engine problems. Do not ignore it if it lights up, as it may indicate a possible low oil pressure.
Proceed by checking the dipstick and add oil if the levels are low. If the indicator light remains on, then this could signify an oil pump failure. Other signs include:
Overheating Engine
As mentioned earlier, vehicles should be well lubricated while in operation. This helps to prevent friction between moving parts, hence regulating temperature.
When an oil pump malfunctions, oil distribution will be affected. As such, most moving parts will not be well lubricated. Without adequate lubrication, these parts will rub against each other and heat up.
Noise
Car engines have hydraulic lifters. These devices work silently when the engine is functioning correctly. If they are not well lubricated, they will produce sound due to excess friction and may wear out unevenly.
The valve train, which consists of seals, pushrods, and valve guides, will also make noise if the engine is not well lubricated. Replacing these components is very costly in the long run, and the only viable and lasting solution is to ensure the oil reaches to all parts of the engine.
Notably, the oil pump may also produce a whirring sound due to breakdown or the wearing down of the internal components if they lack adequate oiling.
So What Should You Do?
Knowing the necessary measures to take when you suspect malfunctions in your oil pump is very crucial. Essentially, you will be able to avoid any possible damage at the early stages before it develops into a serious issue. Here are the steps to take when testing an oil pump:
Stop the Vehicle
Anytime you notice the low oil pressure light on, stop the car and check the oil level on the dipstick. If the oil level is below the recommended limit, switch off the car and add oil after a few minutes. Thereafter, check for any indicators of oil pump trouble once you restart the engine.
Check the Oil Pressure Sending Unit on the Engine
If the problem persists, check the oil pressure sending unit on the engine. If the pressure light remains on, there may be problems with the mechanical sending unit. This may be a loose plug in the hole where oil enters the unit or bad wiring.
Worn out spots on the rheostat are the most likely cause of problems with the electrical sending unit.
Mount the Oil Pressure Gauge On the Engine Oil Port
Ensure that the oil pressure gauge on the engine’s oil port is well mounted. Check the pressure reading while the engine is running. At this point, the pump might have issues if the light does not turn off.
Proceed to check the pressure gauge. If the pressure is normal, the issue may be caused by the sending unit and not the oil pump.
Check the filter on the pickup tube and clean it or replace it if need be. At this point, you may need to have your oil pump replaced by a mechanic if the problem persists.
How to Keep Your Car Engine in Peak Condition
The best way to avoid significant problems with your car’s engine is checking on it regularly. Here is what you should do:
- Check engine oil every time you refuel
- Do not overfill your crankcase with oil
- Change the oil regularly
- Wipe the oil pan when you change the oil
- Use synthetic oil as they are better for your engine
Take Away:
Testing an oil pump is one of the fundamental procedures that every car owner must know how to execute. Even though the process may look easy, you need to be keen to give a correct diagnosis.
Also, you can learn more Best Sewage Pump Reviews to improve your skills!
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