Griffith 4.0 Pre-Serp Oil Change

[Johnny 89]

Hi Folks,

I picked up a Pre-Cat. / Pre-Serp. Griffith at the beginning of the year and before I change the oil I said I would ask here for any specific tips as I have read there may be some extra precautions to take or tips with the pre-serp. engine.

So, what should I consider over and above the below steps (if anything).

1. Start engine, allow to warm up and stop.
2. Remove sump plug and drain engine oil.
3. remove old oil filter
4. Fill new oil filter with engine oil, rubbing some oil around the seal. (currently has 20W50 which I don't think there's any reason to change from, but open to suggestions)
5. Fit new oil filter and fill with oil to required level (c. 5L?)
6. Good to go.

Is it as simple as above or is there anything else I should consider?

Thanks in advance
Johnny

[lancepar]

John,

My Griff' has done less than 5K in my ownership and it was serviced before I took ownership.

Anyway when I eventually change the oil and filter (I have both ready) the only thing I thought about doing regarding your list was that after 2: draining the oil, refill with clean oil and run the engine again again for a bit.

Then fit the new clean filter etc. My reasoning is that my way will help prevent any air locks which apparently can ocour with the pre-serp oil pump.

What do other peeps think?

[Johnny 89]

lancepar said:

John,

My Griff' has done less than 5K in my ownership and it was serviced before I took ownership.

Anyway when I eventually change the oil and filter (I have both ready) the only thing I thought about doing regarding your list was that after 2: draining the oil, refill with clean oil and run the engine again again for a bit.

Then fit the new clean filter etc. My reasoning is that my way will help prevent any air locks which apparently can ocour with the pre-serp oil pump.

What do other peeps think?

Thanks for that. Yes it's the air lock in the oil pump that I read could be an issue.

If I'm understanding you right, do you mean to fill the oil with the old filter in place, run engine for a bit and then just replace the filter with oil still full? Topping up with new oil to replace any that was lost when replacing the filter with oil full?

[scottliv]

Be careful filling the filter. Yes it is the right thing to do but try a dry fit first. It is fiddly getting it on and if full you will just tip the oil back out again. Maybe 1/2 full will be fine. Don’t ask me how I know.

[Belle427]

I think dropping the old oil and refilling first is the best approach, then change the filter filling it as much as you can with fresh oil.
I wouldnt bother starting it in between.
Most problems occur when the pump is disturbed or left drained for longer periods.

[Johnny 89]

Thanks folks, much appreciated.. some great tips

[Sardonicus]

Belle427 said:

I think dropping the old oil and refilling first is the best approach, then change the filter filling it as much as you can with fresh oil.
I wouldnt bother starting it in between.
Most problems occur when the pump is disturbed or left drained for longer periods.

This ^

[BIG DUNC]

On my pre-cat, for many oil changes,, over 18 years of ownership, I have drained the oil, changed the filter and then filled with oil.
Never had a problem with oil pressure on restart, even when I drained the oil, removed the engine, refitted it (18 months later) and filled it with oil.
I have had a problem with 4 ltr (3.9 in land rover speak) pre-serp range rover, but that had been off the road for many years.

[Sardonicus]

But caution is key here , its well documented (in RV8 circles anyway) the pump can drain down on the external pump pre-serp cars , no point in tempting fate

[BIG DUNC]

I agree that it is good to be cautious and I always watch the gauge closely on the first start after an oil change.
My point is, it is not always as bad a problem as some would have you believe.

[Sardonicus]

BIG DUNC said:

I agree that it is good to be cautious and I always watch the gauge closely on the first start after an oil change.
My point is, it is not always as bad a problem as some would have you believe.

Agreed

[wild rover]

Drain the sump and refill. Then remove the filter and replace. Remove the king lead and turn the engine over a few times. Replace king lead and start. Worked for me.

[waggy]

Just an extra precaution, I disconnect the fuel pump by pulling the wire off behind back wheel, then turn engine over on starter and ensure oil light goes out and oil pressure registers on oil gauge. Just makes sure there is oil pressure before starting.
I also drain and refill oil before changing filter ( filled with oil)

Good luck
Alex

[RayTVR]

I've done this a few times on a V8S (same engine). Just drain, swap filter and then refill, checking the pressure carefully on restart. I think this is fine, just don't hang about or leave for a long period with the oil drained.