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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - MG Midget Oil Pressure

Hi everyone,

I've recently bought my first classic, a '67 midget. It's a fantastic little car and a pleasure to drive.

I'be been reading through the workshop manual which states the normal oil pressure on starup should be between 30 and 60psi. I have 50psi quickly (after a minute or so) reducing to 30-40 psi.

The workshop manual also states that the oil pressure at idle should be between 10psi (min.) and 25psi. I have 20psi at idle once the engine is warmed up.

During normal driving the oil pressure is between 35 & 40psi @ 3k - 3.5 RPM.

The reason for me querying the oil pressure is after doing abit of reading online (always dangerous I know) the consensus seems to be 60psi on startup and min 40psi when warm?

Could you please tell me if this is correct and if so do my oil pressures seem abit low?

The cars idles fine and there doesn't seem to be any unusual or concerning noises from the engine during idle or normal driving.

I also haven't noticed any smoke from the exhaust during idle or acceleration.

Any feedback or pointers would be appreciated for this newbie

Thanks in advance everyone

Lewis
L Bell

Absolutely nothing wrong with those numbers
Rob Armstrong

There is absolutely nothing wrong with those numbers

Mine will drop to twenty or less at times

Starts at sixty or sixtyfive

Really, do not become a meter reader just because you have one

;)


Sounds like you have a fine motor car, enjoy it

Spring's on its way
bill l

Lewis, more than seeing the numbers as absolutes see the gauges as guides, look for a change from the 'usual' and then act upon the changes.

Enjoy your Midget.

Peter
Peter Burgess Tuning

Figures look good to me if you are using the correct standard 20/50 oil.

Where about in Cumbria are you? I assume your name isn't Lily 'cos that would make you my granddaughter and she is only 3
Guy W

Personally I would change the oil and filter with decent 20/50 now - unless you know for certain it has been done recently. Satisfactory lubrication is the single most important factor for running any ICE and changing the oil gives piece of mind, reduces risk, and if the existing oil is old, can give a much smoother feel to the engine. Obviously refill to the correct level.

You may also see an improvement in oil pressure once changed.

I would agree that nothing you state gives rise to concern at the moment. The other usual suspects for which low oil pressure can be an indicator are poor compression - poor performance, valve seals shot - smoky engine, and obviously any leaks - colourful language from the missus.

Gauges are indeed to be used as guides only rather than absolute indicators.

Mark O

As Mark has pointed out I'd change the oil to a decent 20/50 (if you've not already done so) and see what it is then. Even as it is it should be fine for normal use. You may find it goes a bit lower after a long run at higher speeds on the motorway.

I'd recommend Valvoline VR1 20/50 for your oil change, expensive (£30 ish) but worth it.
john payne

Guy

I think OP's name is Lewis, at least that's what it says at the bottom of the post! ;o)
Dave O'Neill 2

Omg... stop driving it, its gonna blow...

run for your life, for the safty of all mankind, please ship your 67 to me at your expense, just give me full ownership...ill make the sacrifice and make sure it is rendered safe ....of course im doing this ... "for the children of our planet"

Prop
Prop and the Blackhole Midget

Hi Lewis,
Don't forget that it takes power to get oil pressure and what you need is oil flow not pressure. So high pressure = less power available to you. Of course you may not be able to measure the difference.
The figures you quote sound absolutely fine to me.
As the car is new to you, I would suggest you do a full service (sorry Nigel, I got in before you, where is he when you need him?) With quality oil suited to a classic car.
And then enjoy the car driving it as often as you can.
Don't forget, properly looked after it will be reliable and give you pleasure and will not go down in value. So don't be afraid to spend some money on it.

Good luck
Dave
Dave Brown

Sounds fine to me.
A second vote for an oil change. Valvoline is a very good oil but if you're looking for something less expensive then Comma Classic 20w50 (Comma supply Halfords apparently) or Comma Sonic 20w50 which has higher levels of zinc, are both good. The former takes a while to circulate when it's cold though.

Welcome to the world of Spridgets and this forum - it's an incredibly helpful place!
Jeremy Tickle

Well ever the contrarian, I wouldn't 'automatically' do an oil change and full service, just because I'd just bought the car.

I'd have established when it was last done. I'd look at the colour and texture of the oil. If it was done just before I bought the car, then it would not only waste my time, it would also waste my money.

You all agree the oil pressure is ok, so what's with all the ott advice?

Don't do anything to it other than check that the oil, and check the level is at max.

What's the history? Did you get any invoices/service record? If it's a good and recent history, then drive it, don't fiddle with it.
Lawrence Slater

This thread was discussed between 26/03/2015 and 27/03/2015

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