I'm in the process of installing a new long-block 4.3 in my '90 Blazer. When I used a pre-oiler to lube the block, the oil pump is ticking/racheting. I used a new Mellings Z28 oil pump that I know
turned smoothly before I bolted it on. I also used a new oil pump drive rod w/ steel collar. I have tried to re-seat the drive rod on the pump several times, and you can still feel resistance when you turn the pump, almost like somethings' in there--besides oil of course. Any help? Sorry for the long post. Thanks.

Anybody?

I would pull it and re-do it. Shouldn't be any ticking, grinding, etc.

Don't look past it. Did you torque everything to spec?

Tim

Did you pack it with Pretroleum Jelly before you installed it. That is to prime it before you prime it.

It melts and mixes once the engine gets hot.

Tim

Everything SHOULD be torqued. I won't swear to anything. No, I didn't pack the oil pump this time. Have before, didn't think it was really necessary. Anyway, I'm going to try to drop the pan enough to check the drive rod and maybe spin the pump then. We'll see. Thanks, kyle