GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 21867 Pressure Gage
    • J 42907 Oil Pressure Testing Tool

    Object Number: 1593649  Size: SH
  1. With the vehicle on a level surface, run the vehicle for a few minutes. Allow adequate drain down time, 2-3 minutes, and measure the oil level.
  2. If required, add the recommended grade engine oil and fill the crankcase until the oil level measures full on the oil level indicator.
  3. Run the engine briefly, 10-15 seconds, and verify low or no oil pressure on the vehicle gage or light.
  4. Listen for a noisy valve train or a knocking noise.
  5. Inspect for the following conditions:
  6. • Oil diluted by water or glycol antifreeze
    • Refer to Coolant in Engine Oil .
    • Foamy oil, which may be caused by a cut or damaged oil pump screen O-ring seal
  7. Remove the oil filter and install the J 42907  (1).
  8. Install J 21867  (2), or equivalent to the J 42907  (1).
  9. Run the engine and measure the engine oil pressure.
  10. Compare the readings to Engine Mechanical Specifications .
  11. If the engine oil pressure is below specifications, inspect the engine for 1 or more of the following conditions:
  12. • Oil pump worn or dirty
    • Refer to Oil Pump Cleaning and Inspection .
    • Oil pump-to-engine block bolts loose
    • Refer to Oil Pump, Screen and Crankshaft Oil Deflector Installation .
    • Oil pump screen loose, plugged, or damaged
    • Oil pump screen O-ring seal missing or damaged
    • Oil filter tube loose or a leaking or damaged gasket
    • Malfunctioning oil pump pressure relief valve
    • Excessive bearing clearance
    • Cracked, porous, or restricted oil galleries
    • Oil gallery plugs missing or incorrectly installed
    • Refer to Engine Block Plug Installation .
    • Improper operation of the oil pressure relief valve
    • Refer to Oil Pressure Relief Valve Diagnosis and Testing .