Re-built Engine, Need To Do Anything Before Starting

The switch that sends the signal to your gauge cluster simply operates at a minimun pressure of around 5 to 7 psi, and is only an on/off switch; it sends no variable signal to operate a gauge.
The best thing to do, even if temporarily, is to mount a tee fitting at the oil pressure switch, and run a line to a mechanical gauge, while keeping your oil light functioning.
Its always good to monitor oil pressure closely upon starting a fresh engine.
-Donny

 

Same reason they don't issue parachutes on airliners. They don't want to get the customer thinking about the implications. And most people have no idea how to use them (parachutes or gauges).

But I agree - a full set of gauges is the cat's meow.

 

Military, you mean? Yes but that was a quite different set of customers.

 

Yes. The CJ5 was the first universal Jeep without individual gauges. All Flatfenders had them until the DJ3a and CJ3b went to the same large round cluster as the CJ5 had in about 1957.

 

Any idea how long it should take to start getting oil pressure while cranking the engine with plugs removed? I've cranked for about one minute total, in several 5-10 second increments.

Would you recommend pouring oil around the springs under the top valve cover? I almost did, but thought leaving it dry would allow me to see when oil starts being delivered.

 

I've usually had oil pressure after 30-45 seconds of continuous cranking, of course with the plugs removed. The starter shouldn't get too hot at this duration, but keep checking it. Longer intervals of cranking will give the pump a better chance to pick up prime than your 10-15 second intervals.
-Donny

 

Yes.. got an oil pressure gauge hooked up to where the pressure switch was connected, and filled the oil filter cannister up too. The gauge isn't permanent, just an external gauge with a hose, but it's got a nice long 6' hose so I can leave it connected and drive for a while till I'm comfortable the engine is broken in. I just wasn't sure if there were any other locations I should prime with oil...inside the top or side valve covers, etc.