1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

[sea flower]

Hi all.....Just winterized the ol' sea ray and did a gauge check on the oil pressure while I was flushing the engine. I was told that these numbers where to low.
At idle 20-30 psi and revd to 2500 rpm and saw 40-50 psi. I am pulling the heads to have them rebuilt cause i think I have a broken valve spring during my last ride a week ago. Just wondering if the motor is tired? The compression checks were done through the summer and seemed good enough. Mercruiser has an offer for a drop in motor for $6300 turn key. Since I like the boat I don't plan on getting rid of it. Coin toss...rebuild or replace??? Everyones comments are welcome......

 

[Alpheus]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

Mercruiser manual states you only need 4psi @ idle. General rule of thumb is 10psi per 1000 rpm. So yours is right in the ball park...

 

[Flukinicehole]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

I dont know who told you those #'s were low but dont listen to them. They are right on.

 

[wire2]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

Same pressures as I see on my '84 5.7

 

[6meter]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

$6300 into a 27 yr old boat? If your compression is good and your oil pressure IS good, run it! I would certianly take a closer look at your heads before you pull them. Broken valve springs should be visible with the heads on. That price for a new motor seems up there.

 

[sea flower]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

6meter.
The cost for the motor is turn key not short block. I saw it at a boat show the beginning of this month. 4 bolts, battery connections, fuel line, water hose. It was and is a coin toss. The 27 years for me is cheaper than a new boat. This one I've had for 4 years. The hull and gell coat are in great shape. The interier is real good. So I'm having fun.

 

[Lou C]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

as others said those readings are right where they should be....if the compression is good, the oil pressure is good, oil consumption OK? any strange noises? if all are OK then save your $$

 

[cr2k]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

A broken valve spring can be replaced without pulling the head. Use and air chuck in the spark plug hole to hold the valve closed and an external spring compressor. Piece of cake. Just exhaust and valve cover gaskets.

 

[Jet Wrench]

Re: 1983 5.7 260 oil pressure

You're "good to go". Those oil pressure numbers are very good and to do any work on the motor is throwing money away. Run it and enjoy it.

JW