Oil Pump stuff

[So Cal Mark]

I was reading an article in a trade mag about the latest developments in oil pumps, and it had some interesting facts that are applicable to Spiders. The article has a lot of GM and Ford stuff, but some problems that are universal to gear-set pumps like the Fiat TC uses.
"For every 10 point increase in the viscosity of oil (30W instead of 20W, etc), tests show a 5 percent drop in oil flow through the pickup screen. An OEM style oil pickup with a screen style inlet cover has a theoretical open area of 60-70 percent between the wire mesh. Yet it only flows about 30 percent of what it should flow due to the restrictive drag created by the screen. The screen or perforated holes at the pickup don't really protect the pump. They just keep big chunks of debris out of the pump. The tolerances inside an oil pump are typically .002 to .005, so any particles larger than that but smaller than the opening in the pickup inlet will be sucked into the pump anyway and damage the pump."

" The solution is to replace the perforated metal cover with a 1/4" hex honeycomb cover that has an open area of 92 percent and flows up to 78 percent of its theoretical maximum. "

[baltobernie]

Yet another reason to use the viscosity recommended by the engine designer. I'm sure galleys, etc. are also similarly affected negatively with heavier weight oils.

[mbouse]

agreed... except how do those "for older engine" oils perform. are these oils really different?

sounds like you've stumbled onto a new aftermarket product Mark.... replacement screens for oil pumps to handle higher visc oils.

[halg]

Mark, I have an interesting article everyone should read, it might change everyone's idea about oil viscosity. I will get it to you the next time we get together.
Hal

[ga.spyder]

Very interesting post,Mark.In your opinion would a say 5W-30 oil provide enough protection for our engines?
Craig