Oil pump - dismantling, inspection and reassembly

Dismantling
1 The oil pump can be dismantled for cleaning, but if any of the components are worn, the pump must be renewed as an assembly.

2 To dismantle the pump, proceed as follows.

3 Unscrew the two securing bolts, and remove the pump cover (see illustration).

27.3 Removing the oil pump cover
27.3 Removing the oil pump cover

4 Lift the inner and outer rotors from the pump casing.

5 Unscrew the pressure relief valve plug from the pump cover, recover the washer, and withdraw the spring and plunger (see illustrations).

27.5a Unscrew the pressure relief valve plug and washer . . .
27.5a Unscrew the pressure relief valve plug and washer . . .

27.5b . . . and withdraw the spring and plunger
27.5b . . . and withdraw the spring and plunger

Inspection
6 Thoroughly clean all components in petrol or paraffin, and wipe dry using a non-fluffy rag.

7 Examine the rotors and the pump casing for signs of excessive wear on the machined surfaces. If wear is evident, the complete pump assembly must be renewed, as spare parts are not available individually.

Reassembly
8 Commence reassembly by lubricating the relief valve plunger. Fit the plunger and the spring, and screw the plug into place, ensuring that the washer is in place under the plug.

9 Lubricate the rotors, and fit them to the pump casing with the punch marks facing the pump cover (see illustration).

27.9 The punch marks (arrowed) on the oil pump rotors must face the pump
27.9 The punch marks (arrowed) on the oil pump rotors must face the pump cover

10 Refit the pump cover and tighten the securing bolts.

11 Prime the pump before refitting.

Oil pump drive chain and sprockets - examination and renovation

1 Examine all the teeth on the sprockets. If the teeth are “hooked” in appearance, renew the sprockets.

2 Examine the chain tensioner for wear, and renew it if necessary.

3 Examine the chain for wear. If it has been in operation for a considerable time, or if when held horizontally (rollers vertical) it takes on a deeply-bowed appearance, renew it.

    See also:

    Radiator fan - removal and refitting
    All models except RS Turbo Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative terminal. 2 Disconnect the wiring plug at the fan motor and unclip the wiring from the shroud. 3 On pre-1986 models the fan sh ...

    Distributor - removal and refitting
    Contact breaker ignition system OHV engines Removal 1 Disconnect the leads from the spark plugs, spring back the retaining clips and lift off the distributor cap. 2 Disconnect the LT lead at the ...

    SOHC engines
    General information The engine is of a four-cylinder, in-line, single overhead camshaft type, mounted at the front of the vehicle and available in 1.3, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 litre versions. The cranks ...