Rico,


At very hot idle, as after a highway run, my engine oil pressure gets little below 40psi. With fresh oil, this value is unseen. 20 psi is not a bad value per say, the engine is certainly not being harmed by it, and certainly so with good quality synthetic oil, because the oil film is intact across the babbit. The oil film is either present or tearing, and i expect with great oil, the engine would suffer no damage at even 5 psi idling.

The problem here is that the defect causing the low pressure could worsen suddenly. It's likely cause is the oil pump supply tube o-ring. If this were to pop out completely, your engine would suffer severe damage very quickly.

I would keep a close eye on the oil pressure from now on, until you have the option to remove the engine and make an inspection.


Goatman