Gil’s Garage
Gil Baumgartner
CTCI Authenticity Chairman
Before starting a newly rebuilt engine the oiling system can and should be pressurized before it is started the first time. This can take place while it is still on the engine stand or after it is installed in the vehicle. The choice is yours.
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Photo 1 – The oil pump can be operated, pressurizing the system before the distributor is installed. This is accomplished with an electrical or air driven drill with a ¼” deep socket securely attached to a long ¼ drive extension. PInsure the oil pan, filter, all fitting and plugs are properly installed. Service the oil pan with the proper amount of engine oil.
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Photo 2 shows the oil pump drive shaft that that couples with and normally driven by the distributor shaft.
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Photo 3 shows an electric drill connected to the oil pump shaft using a ¼” deep socket and extension as described in item 1 above. The drill is ran in the reverse position because the distributor drives the oil pump shaft counter clock wise. After driving the pump in reverse for a few minutes you will experience the pump loading which you will feel through the drill.
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Photo 4 – Once the drill starts to load watch for oil dripping from the rocker arm shafts. In rare occasions it may be necessary to rotate the engine by hand to obtain internal oil passage alignment. The driver’s side will oil first because it is closest to the oil pump. When oil starts to drip from the passenger side rocker arms watch for oil to exit the oil return tubes on one of each rocker shaft. The engine is now properly pre oiled for initial start-up.
Gil Baumgartner