As an engine builder, you want to ensure that your engine is reliable and runs smoothly. One of the critical components in an engine is the oil pump, which ensures proper lubrication to all moving parts. However, if the oil pump is not primed correctly, it can cause significant damage to your engine. This is where the oil pump primer tool comes into play. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about oil pump primer tools.
What is an Oil Pump Primer Tool?
Before diving into the specifics of oil pump primer tools, let’s first understand what they are. An oil pump primer tool is a device that helps prime the oil pump before starting the engine. It works by simulating the normal operation of the engine’s oil system, allowing oil to flow through all the necessary passages and lubricate all moving parts.
Why Do You Need an Oil Pump Primer Tool?
Primarily, using an oil pump primer tool ensures that your engine has proper lubrication before starting it. Without proper lubrication, your engine’s moving parts can wear and tear quickly, leading to premature failure.
Additionally, if you’re rebuilding an engine or replacing the oil pump, priming the pump with an oil pump primer tool can help eliminate air pockets in the system. Air pockets can prevent proper lubrication, resulting in poor engine performance and even damage.
Types of Oil Pump Primer Tools
There are two main types of oil pump primer tools – manual and electric.
Manual Oil Pump Primer Tools
Manual oil pump primer tools are hand-operated devices that require physical effort to operate. They come in different designs but typically consist of a shaft with a handle on one end and a fitting on the other end that attaches to the oil pump drive gear. When used correctly, manual oil pump primer tools can effectively prime an oil pump.
Electric Oil Pump Primer Tools
As the name suggests, electric oil pump primer tools are powered by electricity. They come with a motor that rotates the oil pump drive gear, which primes the oil pump. Electric oil pump primer tools are easier to use than manual ones and require less physical effort.
How to Use an Oil Pump Primer Tool?
Using an oil pump primer tool is relatively simple. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Remove the oil filter and fill it with fresh engine oil.
Step 2: Attach the oil pump primer tool to the oil pump drive gear.
Step 3: Apply pressure to the handle of the manual oil pump primer tool or turn on the electric one. This will rotate the oil pump drive gear and prime the oil pump.
Step 4: Continue applying pressure or letting the electric tool run until you see fresh engine oil flowing out of the rocker arms or pushrods.
Step 5: Reinstall the oil filter and fill it with fresh engine oil.
Step 6: Start your engine and let it run for a few minutes before shutting it off to check for any leaks.
Oil Pump Primer Tool Tips
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using an oil pump primer tool:
– Always use a high-quality oil filter.
– Make sure to fill the filter with fresh engine oil before using an oil pump primer tool.
– Double-check that you have attached the primer tool correctly to avoid damaging your engine.
– Do not over-prime your engine as this can cause damage.
– Check for leaks after starting your engine.
Conclusion
An oil pump primer tool is an essential device for every engine builder. It helps ensure proper lubrication before starting your engine and eliminates air pockets in the system. There are two main types of oil pump primer tools – manual and electric – both of which are effective at priming an oil pump. Remember to follow our tips when using an oil pump primer tool to avoid damaging your engine and ensure smooth engine performance.
Wiki Reference
Oil pump primer tool. (n.d.). Retrieved November 03, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil_pump_primer_tool
