97 cavalier oil light comes on when worm @ idle

[fourwheelerpimpste]

my 97 2.2 cavalier oil light comes on when worm @ idle, it did this befor my engene locked up, I just had the engine rebuilt and it runs great exept the oil light. It does not come on when its cold but after I drive for about 15 min. it starts to come on when I come to a stop (same as befor) I know there is a different fuel pump in it. If I rev the engine up to about 1000rpm the light goes out, its normal idle is 500rpm. Do you think I should Idle it up to 900-1000rpms if so do you think that is the problem, I just dont want the engine to go out on me again. any input will be great thank you

[cdru]

My first guess would be a failing oil pump or related component. At idle speeds, the oil is at minimal pressure. By revving the engines slightly, it pumps more oil, increasing the pressure.

It could also be a failing pressure sensor, plugged passage, etc...

My 97 did a similar type of thing as I was driving it home from the place where I bought it. I limped it home and the first thing that I did was did a complete oil flush. The car had been neglected for some time from the previous owner and the new oil has seemed to breath new life into it. The oil pressure light hasn't come back (knock on wood).

[OverAllComa]

I'd second the failing oil pump idea. Then again, I have no idea what the factory idle is on a 2.2...but between 500-600 would seem right for that size/type of motor.

[Termanator]

Change your oil?

[jakegday]

my 98 2.2 idles at 900

[cdru]

Originally Posted by OverAllComa

I'd second the failing oil pump idea. Then again, I have no idea what the factory idle is on a 2.2...but between 500-600 would seem right for that size/type of motor.

My '97 2.2 OHV idles around 750 RPM.