Putting back together the BRAT, installed the engine plugged the oil sending uint and temp switch cable into the wiring harness and cranked the engine (without the coil hooked up) to move oil and build pressure so I could do final adjustment on the hydro lifters.

 

Cranked 3 times for 10 seconds each, gauge didn't move (sat at "0").

 

Looking for trouble shooting suggestions... try a new wire, am I missing a ground etc.

 

Your help is appreciated.

Edited December 16, 201312 yr by tundrabrat

25 views but no suggestions... someone must have a suggestion.

try running the engine. the gauge is notoriously inaccurate, and usually rides near the zero at idle as normal operation. Generally it is highest at cold startup or at highway cruising speed, about 35-45 psi according to the gauge.

I doubt if cranking will produce a reading.  I think it has to be running.

I think power to the gauge drops out while cranking and slow cranking is barely any pressure try starting it.

Sounds unanimous... Good, thought I was going crazy.