Oil pump drive

[Juan Veldez]

During priming, I got oil up to the rockers on both banks. Looks great. Took awhile to figure out the correct orientation of the crank/camshaft to make this happen. LOTS of spinning! So now, when trying to install the oil pump drive hex end into the pump, she just will not fall in, even with a little pressure down on the gear and turning it with screwdriver back and forth when turning the crank slowly. I think I may have messed up the female hex end on the pump. Anyone dealt with this before? Any suggestions? As always, thanks in advance.

 

[pschlosser]

From memory, the oil shaft extension (that mates to the bottom of the distributor) does NOT simply drop straight in. The gear on the bottom has spline teeth at an incline, so one must "screw" it in to seat fully. I seem to recall using a big screwdriver to turn it gently to seat. There is a procedure for this in the FSM, so make sure to check your manual for details, under Engine, Distributor Drive Shaft Bushing.

 

[Daves69]

.,,,...I think I may have messed up the female hex end on the pump. Anyone dealt with this before? Any suggestions? As always, thanks in advance.

Assuming this is a big block engine?
Does your prime tool still fit?
Have you checked the intermediate shaft for a bent condition?
Have you checked the intermediate shaft tip for burrs that may cause a hang up?

 

[Xcudame]

Definitely have to twist the intermediate gear into place with a big screwdriver! Did you install a new bushing for the intermediate gear? With the factory tool that reams it during bushing install? It's a snug fit when reamed and impossible (without breaking something) to install if not reamed.