Oil Pump problem?

[ibleedblue]

My 2001 Sport Trac 4.0 . On cold mornings oil pressure gauge stays all the way down for about five minutes, but doesn't seem to make any lower end sounds. I think that maybe the sending unit is going bad but I'm starting to develop valvetrain noise and thought that maybe this was rocker arms and pushrods because that is what all my other 4.0 engines have done around 125,000 miles. Am I on the right track or is my oil pump failing? Any advice appreciated

 

[Yellowsplash]

Your sport trac doesnt have pushrods...its an overhead cam engine. btw, sending units are pretty cheap at the local parts store.

 

[ibleedblue]

good call, so does this mean cam problem?

 

[Yellowsplash]

First I would verify that you do have proper oil pressure. Hook up a mechanical gauge to verify and go from there.

 

[slimchriz]

Nah my 2001 ranger sticks too. Im certain its sender possibly common problem
Ohh and my valves sound like eggbeaters too esecially at 3k rpm.

 

[ibleedblue]

sending unit was bad, THANKS. My valves also noisy @ 3k rpm is that common with this model 4.0? (2001)

 

[slimchriz]

probly sticky lifters there are additives said to quiet them but havnt tried any yet.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

you guys arent hearing valves, your hearing the timing chains rattling. its a common problem with the SOHC. the hydraulic timing chain tensioner assemblies suck.

 

[Yellowsplash]

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

I was just going to say, sounds like the notorious timing chain rattle.

 

[slimchriz]

Hmm does that mean its on its way out or is it just noise

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

its noise...but having the chains flopping around in there does increase wear of the components.

 

[ibleedblue]

sure do appreciate the info guys, guess I can go back to working on my ranger project truck