Help Me with My 7.3 Low Pressure Oil Pump Issues!

Technical Issues
1

Overview

I’ve been experiencing some concerning issues with the low pressure oil pump (LPOP) on my 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine. I know that this pump plays a crucial role in keeping the engine lubricated and running smoothly, but lately, I’ve noticed some signs that make me think there could be a problem. I’m hoping to gather some insights and advice from fellow forum members who might have dealt with similar issues.

Symptoms I’m Noticing

  • Low Oil Pressure: I’ve been monitoring my oil pressure gauge, and it seems to be fluctuating more than it used to. Sometimes it drops to the red zone, which freaks me out.
  • Engine Noise: There’s been an increase in chatter and noise coming from the engine bay, which makes me worry that the pump might not be delivering enough oil.
  • Oil Leaks: I’ve found some oil pooling under the truck recently, and while I’m not sure if it’s related, I suspect it could be.

Troubleshooting Steps Taken

So far, I’ve tried a few troubleshooting steps:

  1. Checked Oil Level: I made sure the oil level is adequate, and it’s fine.
  2. Inspected Filters: I replaced the oil filter and ensured that it’s not clogged.
  3. Wiring Check: I checked the wiring that goes to the oil pressure sensor, as there could be a bad electrical connection.

Questions for the Community

  • Has anyone experienced similar symptoms with their 7.3 LPOP? What did you do to diagnose the issue?
  • Is replacing the pump a complicated task? Are there any specific tools or parts I should be aware of?
  • Any recommendations for good replacement parts? I’ve seen a few options online, but I want to make sure I get a quality product.

Conclusion

I’d really appreciate any advice or shared experiences regarding troubleshooting or replacing the low pressure oil pump in these engines. I want to nip this issue in the bud before it turns into a bigger problem. Thanks in advance for your help!

5 Likes
2

I’ve had similar issues with my 7.3. It often manifests as low oil pressure, especially when starting cold. It might be the oil pump itself or even a clogged filter.

3

That’s a classic sign! Have you checked the pickup tube for debris? That can cause low pressure as well.

4

Symptoms could also include a rough idle and excessive oil consumption. It’s worth keeping an eye on those as well.

6 Likes
5

Definitely! My 7.3 started idling roughly before the oil pump failed completely. It’s like the canary in the coal mine!

6

If you have access to a scanner, check for any trouble codes. Sometimes, sensors can give misleading readings, which might point you toward the wrong problem altogether.

7

That’s a good point! I had to replace the oil pressure sensor first before realizing the pump was the real issue.

8

I recommend starting with the basics: oil type and level. If it’s too low or the wrong viscosity, it can lead to pressure issues too.

9

Absolutely! I switched to a synthetic blend, and it helped a lot with maintaining pressure during cold starts.

10

How often do you change your oil? Frequent changes can greatly help prevent issues with the low pressure oil pump. Just a thought!

11

I agree! Old oil can’t do its job properly, so regular changes are critical.

1 Like
12

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try testing the pressure with a gauge to see if it’s really the pump at fault. It’s not too complicated!

13

I did that, and it gave me some concrete numbers to go on. Definitely worth the effort!

14

Don’t get discouraged! The 7.3 can be finicky, but with the right troubleshooting, you’ll get to the bottom of it. Keep us updated!

15

Just remember, fixing these issues can be a jigsaw puzzle, but you’re not alone! We’re all rooting for you!

3 Likes
16

I’ve been dealing with low pressure oil pump issues on my 7.3 for a while! Consider upgrading to a high-performance pump. I’ve heard great things about the HPOPs as they really boost overall performance.

8 Likes
17

I agree, sarajensen! I swapped mine for an upgraded pump last year, and it really transformed my truck’s performance.

18

What kind of parts did you use for the upgrade, adrian42? I’m trying to figure out the best options without breaking the bank.

19

I’ve had mixed results with low pressure oil pumps. Some guys swear by the Diesel Site pump, while others had issues with installation. Definitely double-check everything when you install it!

20

Great point, christinasaunders! I had to redo my install because I missed a leak at first. What’s the average labor cost if I take it to a shop, though?