Can't get the oil pump off 78 dodge 440 engine

SOURCE: 1978 Dodge Motorhome with 440 engine

It can be on the oil, and a lot of times on the batteries too

Posted on Jun 19, 2008

SOURCE: Will a 440 short block engine fit into a 1993

A 5.9 should fit nice with no mods

Posted on Mar 02, 2009

SOURCE: Oil pump pressure reading on gauge

Any engine that cannot produce at least 15psi pressure at idle likely has a pressure loss at the crank bearings (most commonly connecting rod bearings) You can check the clearance by using plasti-gage on them once you have the pan removed.
Most times the pump is blamed for the loss of pressure but actually the pump likely has some scoring inside the housing and on the gear ends that has been caused by bearing material getting in there.
If you replace the pump alone, some pressure will be restored but that will go away quickly as more bearing material is ingested.
The pump should be replaced along with the failing bearing shells (actually best to replace all). If main bearings are worn (rare) engine will need to be removed for that service.
Always re-check bearing clearances before re assembling the engine. If any are still out of clearance, you may want to use an oversize bearing there. After checking or replacement, always re-torque anything that was removed.
Clearance specifications can be found in any good manual.

Posted on Jun 03, 2010