16hp V-Twin in Cub Cadet, low oil light on

[ILENGINE]

I think you have an oil pump problem. The Vanguards that I have done oil pressure checks on in the past put out about 60 psi. The oil pressure switch activates if the pressure drops below 6 psi if I remember correctly.

 

[grobinson]

Thanks for your reply, I will be removing the front cover to investigate.

Question, Are my compression numbers high at 165? Maybe pointing to head gasket issues and oil leaking into the cylinders? It is not smoking so I don't think so...

Thanks for your help...

 

[ILENGINE]

160+ psi on the Vanguard is within normal range for that engine.

 

[grobinson]

I took the front cover off the engine this weekend and found the spring, check ball and what I assume is the press fit plug from the oil pump laying in the bottom of the case (see pics attached). The inside of the case is very clean and I did not find any metal particles (bearing material) so I must have seen the light come on relatively quickly and shut it down before any damage occurred.

Any thoughts on how to fix the pump, maybe reinstall the pieces and use a punch near the edge of the hole to ensure the plug does not come loose again?

Thanks again for your help....