1994 3VZ-E Low Oil Pressure and Valve Train Noise

brocktice · 2013-10-02T22:41:57+00:00

I've got (apparent) low oil pressure in my 3VZ-E, which I just got, so I don't know how long that's been the case. There's also what seems to be valve train noise, which is better when cold, but I don't know for sure if that's what it is. I can try posting a video if that helps. The pressure starts around the middle of the gauge when cold (10w-40 high-mileage Mobil 1, which helped it over the previous 10w-30), and by the time it's fully warmed up (needle just to the left of the thermometer symbol) the pressure is just to the right of the L. Acceleration of the engine moves it slightly to the right. Now, I had set an appointment to have it checked out on Friday by a well-reputed shop, but they're about 30 minutes away from me, and I'm starting to worry I could damage the engine by driving it there. I'm also worried I may get stuck there if they need to do all kinds of work on it. I called them to ask about it and they strongly suggested I tow it there, which is all kinds of work or expense for me as well. So, in your educated opinions: 1) Should I drive it any more AT ALL right now? Do I risk too much by doing so? 2) Should I try to diagnose it more myself first? I just got the Haynes repair manual, and it sounds like I should maybe try dropping the oil pan and having a look around. I've never done so before, though I have the tools (I think). I was just going to leave it to the mechanic, but that's when I assumed I could safely drive it there. I've also ordered an oil pressure gauge via Amazon prime. It looks like I should be able to check the pressure fairly easily. What's the easiest way to get to the sender to check? EDIT: BTW I've been reading this forum and other sources trying to figure this out, found some good info, but the responses range from "that's normal for the 3VZ-E" to "Stop driving now!" EDIT2: Got an estimate to tow it where I need it... $200. Ouch. I could rent a trailer and tow it with my Traverse, but that'd cost $60 and have me driving all over the place (1 hr to pick up, 1 hr back home, 40 min to shop, 1 hr 40 min to drop off trailer, 1 hr back home). EDIT3: I may try option 3, drop it at a place closer by that I don't know as well tomorrow. EDIT4: Found the pressure sending unit, pretty accessible actually. I'll try hooking up the gauge when it arrives tomorrow. If the pressure's good then all's well. I'm also uploading a video. The ticking sound is definitely coming from the top middle of the engine. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3br6erOWzPo&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Thread starter brocktice
Start date Oct 2, 2013

brocktice

New member

Nov 4, 2013

This is being discussed in another thread, but just for follow-up, seems to have been the rod bearings. Some were definitely starting to go, others just well-worn. None spun. I replaced them and the engine is much quieter.

I also had a rattle that may have been due to a stripped bolt holding the starter in place. It was sticking about about 1.5cm when I first saw it. Replaced it with a longer bolt and all is well now with that.