96 Lumina how to check if oil pump needs replacing

[lesabrefan]

Hello,

I'm replacing the LIM gasket due to a coolant mixing with the oil. How do I verify that the oil pump should be replaced or left alone?

Thanks

[danielsatur]

I would focus on the current problem!
1) Change Oil and filter ASAP.
2) Buy a cheap oil change using 3-quarts on oil.
3) Turn the engine over a few times, and change oil to specs.
4) Finish the LIM gasket.

You should be ''ok'' with the oil pump.

[lesabrefan]

It would not be harder to get to the pump later if the LIM is put back together?

[danielsatur]

I'am really hoping for you, it's just a LIM gasket!
What if, bad head gasket, head, or block?

Sometimes it's hard when to stop throwing money at a project, you could consider water pump, hoses, and a thermostat too.
I guess if it's a keeper, and you have the extra money.

I like to profile a car, by Make, Mileage, and condition.
Check NADA & KBB, befor throwing too much money.

[maxwedge]

The oil pump itself would not fail because of coolant intermix, the bearings would then the oil pressure drops, so the pump is not your worry here, the bearings are.

[danielsatur]

After LIM gasket repair, consider blue Devil, or http://www.steelseal,com ,so you don't have to chase coolant problems.