Oil Pump whine

[David_F]

I’m getting a loud whining noise from the engine of my 1995 S2. You can hear it on startup but then can’t be heard on tickover and then returns when the engine is over around 2500rpm. Getting the stethoscope out the sound appears to be coming from behind the oil pump assembly. I haven’t been able to find any similar issues reported with the oil pump. I can replace the oil pump assembly but just wanted to check on here to see whether anyone had had similar issues or whether i should be checking anything else first as the oil pump change looks like a significant job.

[dapinky]

The biggest problem with changing the oil pump is finding a new one....... I've been looking for one for years!

There are a few S/H ones around, and loads for the N/A engines, but the turbo uses a different rotor setup and spring rate.

That all said, the only reason I want one is for when I rebuild my spare engine, just so it'll be new...... and I've never actually heard of one failing.

Are you sure it isn't from the water pump which is right next to the oil pump? - they go wrong quite frequently and are cheap to replace.

[David_F]

Thanks. Definitely going to check the water pump again although that was only changed 12 months ago when serviced by previous owner at a lotus specialist. I’ve found an oil pump assembly at bell & colvill but it’s not cheap. Then again the water pump doesn’t appear to be that easy to get hold of anymore and not as cheap as they used to be by the looks.

[dapinky]

Water pumps (selection of makes and prices) from Rockauto.com are easily available, a gates one can be on your doorstep in a week for £51 all in (cheaper ones are available). If you want other parts that you can get in the same parcel it is a good deal, but if you only want a pump, then you are paying a big chunk for shipping/VAT etc, so it is worth looking at Amazon where you can find one for £27.42 delivered.