So it's been a while since I've been to this forum, years in fact. I have a 97 TA that's been sitting in my garage for a long time. It was having a problem with no oil pressure. I was told that it could be a number of things

1. bad gauge
2. bad oil pump
3. bad bearings

i tried putting a manual oil pressure gauge on and it indeed had 0 oil pressure, at that point it began it's life as a nice big decoration. I've got the itch again and want to get it back running. I need recommendations on the oil pump i should buy and any other parts necessary to replace it. Also since the car has been sitting for so long what other steps should i take to ensure the motor is ok before starting it up. Should i do a whole tear apart/rebuild? I didn't do the proper storage steps so I'm sure there is some rust or degredation inside the engine. Thanks for any advice you can lend.

 

If you've verified with a mechanical gauge that you indeed have zero oil pressure, it's probably time for a rebuild. Since it's been sitting for so long, I'd start by pulling the motor and tear it down. Might as well upgrade, too.

On a more personal note, way back in the day, you were the one who influenced me to make my own clear corners on my green T/A. Good stuff.

 

You could start by inspecting the oil pump drive gear.

 

so what's a good rebuild kit? and a good oil pump to buy? My cousin will be assisting me, but this will be my 1st rebuild (he has done plenty). He has engine hoist, stand, tools, etc. I probably won't do much in terms of upgrades, perhaps a porting intake manifold, but gonna keeps the stock rotating ***. if possible to keep costs down.

hey RamAir, that is good stuff. i briefly went to a colorado truck after the TA, but hated it, now my new toy is a G8 GT.

 

I have had problems w/ the stock oil pump drive. Single bolt can come loose and disengage. I would pull the intake manf first. Check oil pump drive if loose. Also lock-tite it. But, remove the drive and use a remote drive to spin the oil pump while measure of the oil pressure with a manual gage. You will not have to spin the engine assembly. Easy to access when the intake manf is off. Hope this helps. B.