I'm bout to pull the intake off and replace the lifters (bad lifter tick) and I was wondering if it would be beneficial to replace the oil pump drive gear while I have the manifold off. The engine has 164K on it, no real oil pressure issues besides pressure dropping a little at idle, which I've been told is pretty normal for an LT1 with high mileage. Just curious if I should replace it while I have it opened up.??? Any help is appreciated!

 

The concern I would have would be the cam gear too. If the drive gear is worn down then the cam gear might be damage too. I suppose you could pull the gear to inspect it and if it looks OK, put it back in but I don't know if I'd replace it just to replace it.

 

The engine is running great! If the cam was damaged wouldn't it run bad? The lifter tick is just simply annoying and loud I hate to even swap them out.

 

I think he is suggesting that if you have a problem with the oil drive shaft gear, you might also see damage to the cam gear. That wouldn't affect the way the engine runs, except possibly erratic oil pressure. It could still run great.

As I read your original post, you don't feel you have a problem with the oil pump drive shaft, but are only asking if you should replace it as preventative maintenance.

 

Right, just curious with the high mileage. I'll check them out once I have it apart. Thanks

 

I would buy some header gaskets to so you can fix the actual problem. The only think more often falsely accused of issues on an LT1 than lifters is the opti.

 

ok sounds good. I always keep an extra set of header gaskets on hand!!