MF 230 low oil pressure

[frankroberts]

The oil pressure is about 35+ lbs on my MF 230 when the engine is cold. But as the engine warms the oil pressure goes down to 5 lbs. It's a 4 cylinder gas continental engine. What are the reasons this could happen. Bad main bearings? Bad oil pump? Bad rod bearings? Are the rod bearings lubricated by 'splash'?

What would be a normal oil pressure for this tractor. The hour meter on this tractor was not operable for some time and the serial number plate was removed by some earlier owner.

Thanks for the help.

frank

 

[shona13]

G'day Frankroberts.

First thing to do is change the engine oil and filter,if this works thats good ,if not,
Remove the sump and first check the running clearance of the crankshaft connecting rod bearings then the main bearings If they are good check the lube oil pump.
Happy days.
Hutch.

 

[frankroberts]

Is it possible to check the main bearings without removing the engine?

Thanks for any help.

frank.

 

[Jerry/MT]

The oil pressure is about 35+ lbs on my MF 230 when the engine is cold. But as the engine warms the oil pressure goes down to 5 lbs. It's a 4 cylinder gas continental engine. What are the reasons this could happen. Bad main bearings? Bad oil pump? Bad rod bearings? Are the rod bearings lubricated by 'splash'?

What would be a normal oil pressure for this tractor. The hour meter on this tractor was not operable for some time and the serial number plate was removed by some earlier owner.

Thanks for the help.

frank

Rods and mains are presure lubed. These Continentals have a weak oil pump, in my opinion.
Check the oil pump clearances and make sure the relief valve is not stuck open or has a damaged spring.

If those things are good than suspect the main bearing clearance. You can check those qwith Plastigage in frame.