Join Date: May 2008
Posts: 1

Default low oil pressure problem
I have a 94 3.4 5 spd firebird. Has 133k, cold air, stock otherwise.
My problem is that when i first start driving in the morning im reading 40 to 60psi oil pressure, after about ten mins when the engines warm it drops down to about 5 at idle and 20 to 30 when driving. Im pretty sure thats not normal, what is?
There is no knock or any noise whatsoever coming from the engine other than a small exhaust leak somewhere. I have a feeling its not the sensor because i feel a difference in acceleration and engine vibration. First thing in morning it runs smooth. Warms up and its rough vibration and slower accel. My oil is full, regular oil changes.
I do smell oil burning when i get park and get out, its coming from the engine just dont know where, its not bad enough to drip to the cement, i let it sit 2 days and not one drop.
Any advice i would greatly appreciate, anything i can do til then a thicker oil like 10w40? Lucas?
thanks

 

I had a 95 with a lot of miles and low oil pressure.

I used the longer style filter and 10/40 oil and that seemed to get it up a little.

 

My son's 95 3.4 had the same problem. I finally figured it out to be worn bearings. To much clearance so after the oil is hot the pressure goes away. Sounds like a rebuild or new engine should not be far away. I found a used engine with 45,000 miles at a junk yard for $500 and dropped it in. Works great now.