Is it OK for oil pump to be loose or jiggle?

dudlo · Post by **dudlo** » 29 Jan 2022, 20:15

I am replacing oil pump seals (big rubber o-ring and the paper gasket) on my '96 850 with 237,000 miles. As far as I know, it was never opened.

Once I removed the pump, it "jiggled". That is, the moving part (that attaches to the crank) is rather loose, and can move 1-2mm on each side when I spin it by hand. Is that OK/normal? I can imagine it would be fine since the moving part is firmly attached to the crank, so it is not hitting/rubbing against anything. But the new oil pumps on my other cars were much tighter. The car was running fine, I had no oil issue. The only time I've seen oil pressure warning light was on one occasion when my daughter let oil level drop way too much (but she assured me she added the oil immediately). The car was leaking from (seemingly) every cam and crank seal, oil separator, and most likely from oil pump seal. It was quite a puddle-maker. But again, it was not starved of oil, no valve knocking, and it was not burning oil.

I think I may be fine, I just want to check. I can send pictures if needed. I have not even seen oil pumps for sale (dealer notwithstanding). Thanks for any advice.

dudlo

Post by **Sveedy** » 30 Jan 2022, 08:33

I believe that play is normal for the pump. If you look inside, the gear has play and I think moves elliptically until its on the shaft.

dudlo · Post by **dudlo** » 30 Jan 2022, 08:52

Sveedy, you are a gem. I am reluctant to open things up unless forced to. But I now see there is no reason to fear. I'll open the pump up and clean it. Thanks!

Post by **FireFox31** » 30 Jan 2022, 12:45

I've read that the oil pump spring worth replacing if you open up the pump. I think it's still available, but you have to look closely for the part number. My 2000 V70 required 9146132 and it seemed a little hard to get a hold of, but still possible.