New oil pump but oil light on

[300cruiser]

So I replaced my leaking oil pump with a pump (mechanic friend picked it up for me). It went on pretty easy but now I have oil light on. Don't have gauge so not sure what pressure is. What did I do wrong?

 

[Badvert65]

What engine are we talking about?

 

[300cruiser]

440

 

[Big_John]

Did you prime the new pump?

 

[300cruiser]

No. Seems like I missed a critical step.

please don't tell me that I need to remove it again....

 

[Polara_500]

Easiest is to pop the distributor and drive then insert a hex rod down into the pump and hit it with a drill to build pressure.

 

[300cruiser]

Can you confirm; counter clockwise?

 

[Big_John]

CCW, yes.

 

[300cruiser]

Thanks for the tips, guess I should have asked these questions first. Hopefully no permanent damage done. I'm learning as I go.

 

[polara66hardtop]

buy a gauge! Sometimes the light lies!

 

[300cruiser]

I know. It's high on the list of to-do's.

 

[66SportFury]

The other thing is, if the pump wasn't pumping oil, that engine would be making all kinds of tapping noises. It would sound like a thrashing machine!! I would pick up a gauge today and install it.

 

[polara66hardtop]

your sending unit wire could have popped off, if it touches the body, the light will go on.

 

[polara71]

your sending unit wire could have popped off, if it touches the body, the light will go on.

I have been wanting to type that but I just couldn't...thank you

 

[300cruiser]

Update: bought a priming rod and followed instructions. Worked just as described. Took about 30 seconds with the drill and pump primed nicely. Put everything back together today and it's running great.
So many really smart people on this site who are always willing to assist a rookie. Can't say thanks enough.

 

[polara71]

Thanks for the update ....... Glad it worked out.. I am always amazed at the talent here