Oil pan off, anything I should do while I’m under there?

[Truck82]

I have my oil pan off for a new gasket and was wondering if there is anything I should do, check, or look for while I’m under there? It’s my first look at the bottom end of this engine and I’m very surprised that it’s as clean as it is.

 

[Grit dog]

If it’s really old or high mileage maybe consider slapping a new oil pump in it.

 

[Truck82]

If it’s really old or high mileage maybe consider slapping a new oil pump in it.

Can they be rebuilt/refurbished? It might not even be worth the money if they can

 

[Grit dog]

Can they be rebuilt/refurbished? It might not even be worth the money if they can

Not to my knowledge. But quality ones are well under $100. And if you have Advanced Auto parts nearby may get one for like $15.
That said, knock on wood I’ve never lost an oil pump in a lot of old high mileage small blocks. They get gradually lower over time. If yours is running 50-60psi cold and 30ish hot at idle it’s like new. Have run many that were half that.

 

[DoubleDingo]

Rear main, timing set and associated seals/gaskets

 

[Truck82]

Not to my knowledge. But quality ones are well under $100. And if you have Advanced Auto parts nearby may get one for like $15.
That said, knock on wood I’ve never lost an oil pump in a lot of old high mileage small blocks. They get gradually lower over time. If yours is running 50-60psi cold and 30ish hot at idle it’s like new. Have run many that were half that.

This engine has great oil pressure. I run 60-80 psi all day

 

[Truck82]

Rear main, timing set and associated seals/gaskets

I’m doing the rear main but don’t know how far I want to go with the timing chain and all. I’m planning on building this engine in the spring/summer so I think I will leave that alone for now.

 

[DoubleDingo]

I’m doing the rear main but don’t know how far I want to go with the timing chain and all. I’m planning on building this engine in the spring/summer so I think I will leave that alone for now.

Yeah may as well wait. The rear main is easy enough because you're already there. Oil pump is fine too if you're rebuilding the engine in a few months

 

[JD Miller]

Slap a new crank in there

 

[Vbb199]

Slap a new crank in there

327 crank

 

[JD Miller]

327 crank

Na, throw a 454 crank in there

 

[Truck82]

Na, throw a 454 crank in there

Probably going be putting a 454 engine in this truck at some point… forget just the crank.

 

[Craig Nedrow]

Just seal it up, save the money on the oil pump as they last almost indefinitely. When you rebuild (if keeping the same motor) pull the pump apart and inspect it. Get a good book on the build. I like the 454 way more then the SB, would never go back.