What is normal oil pressure indications?

[Av8ferg]

Today, I had to reset my timing after removing the distributor yesterday to test of my ignition unit.   While at it I tested my engine intake vacuum which was perfect so no leaks.  Wanted to confirm that before putting in my rebuild brake booster.  I also replaced my oil pressure sending unit after driving it last week.  Pressure seemed low sometimes.   I replaced it because I  thought maybe it was defective (was a new unit).  The replacement is made by Beck Arnley.   I still feel pressure is lower that I think is right but maybe I’m wrong.  I have a new oil pump (not turbo version) which I probably should have used.   BTW, I opened the oil cap for a peek at idle and I can clearly see oil coming out the cam lobe . 
Here’s what if read at different RPM

First pic is a idle (800 RPM)

Second at 1500 RPM

Third at 2500 RPM 

Is this pretty normal? 
 

[jonbill]

looks pretty normal to me. 

temperature looks high tho! 

Edited May 25, 2022 by jonbill

[SteveJ]

The rule of thumb I heard is 10PSI per 1K RPM. Of course, without a mechanical gauge, it's difficult to know for sure. 

If you're worried enough about it, you could get an adapter like this: https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productdetails.asp?RecID=11217 and add a 1/8 NPT mechanical gauge.

[SteveJ]

Even better price on the adapter: https://www.glowshiftdirect.com/1-8-bspt-male-to-1-8-27-npt-female-hex-thread-adapter/

[Patcon]

I had a Z once that read low like that. I rigged up a mechanical gauge under the hood. It was actually much higher than indicated. It's a common issue

[dutchzcarguy]

No worries mate... (souds australian hey?) 😆   I always say: when there is oil coming for the cam lobe it's okay.. you could test that when the engine is lowered to 500 rpm's and when you still see oil coming out the lobe that would be okay! 

[Av8ferg]

Thanks gents.   I went ahead and ordered that adaptor and and a Marshal 1.5” oil pressure gauge that I’ll mount down by the pressure sender.    Sounds like it’s not a problem but it’s a easy pease of mind fix.  
As far as the temp being higher than normal. The car was idling for a good bit and revved up siting in my garage while setting the timing.  I’m missing the lower half of my fan shroud also which could be a factor.  When driving it seemed lower, I think I have a 190 F thermostat in there.   I’ve been tossing the idea of putting electric fans on the radiator to increase airflow, but haven’t done my research.  

[Yarb]

Might have that shroud piece 

[Terrapin Z]

I have some fan shrouds as well. Just further West.

 

[dutchzcarguy]

23 hours ago, Av8ferg said:

I think I have a 190 F thermostat in there

Yeah, that's 87,7 C and the meter is probably showing that.. just watch it when stuck in traffic if it go's up.. otherwise i don't think that it is a problem.. these meters are not very accurate. If it's always the same "a little over halfway" that is okay. No worries 😉 

[Av8ferg]

Thanks guys.   A friend says he might have a lower shroud for me.  If that doesn’t work I might hit you up for one,    Thank you!