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LM 318 High Oil Pressure

BRF

New member
Hi Guys,

I recently changed the oil and oil filter in my Chrysler LM 318. I now have a higher oil pressure, its moved from the Operating Manual specified pressure of 65 psi to around 85 psi. I'm not sure if I should be worried by this and don't know why it would have changed.

The new filter is the same brand and type as the one I replaced and while the oil is not the same brand used before the oil is the correct specification SAE 30, 20W-50.

Any advice you can give would be appreciated.

Brad
 
Most engine oil pumps control pressure via a bi-pass or relief valve. These are pre-set.
The pumps themselves are capable of producing much more pressure.
It would be uncommon for the bi-pass or relief valve to change value.

Engine oil may begin to cavitate when pressure exceeds 45/60 psi.

I would temporarily install a known-to-be-good mechanical gauge and verify the actual pressure that you are seeing on the OEM gauge.
 
My manual indicates SAE 30 weight oil or an alternative 20W-40 for my 318.
20W-50 might produce a slightly higher oil pressure, but I wouldn't think as much as 20 psi higher.
It could be that you have a bad oil filter right out of the box, all else being unchanged.
Engine oil viscocity.jpg
 
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