In a message dated 3/29/2005 7:17:06 AM Central Standard Time,
mark.steitle@austin.utexas.edu writes:

<< Didn't Lynn Hanover share with us a "racer's secret" concerning this
 problem?  As I recall, he recommended holding the key in place while
 installing the gear on the oil pump by using a dab of super glue on the
 key.  After installing the gear, check that it is still there using a
 piece of safety wire.  Or, maybe I dreamed this?  
 
  
 
 Mark S. >>


I remember that also, but it wasn't me. I used a small ball bit to make a
shallow depression along each side of the keyway. Then with the key installed I
gave it a light strike with a sharp center punch. Bad idea for the shaft, and
it is difficult to get the key out ever again. This is not for aircraft use.

It is not a big enough problem to do anything about, other than just be
careful when assembling. Look along the shaft before installing the nut. You can
see the key.

I did that because I had the engines apart far more often than would be
required for aircraft use.  

I would spin the engine to fill the oiling system. Then install the plugs and
fire it up.

I every case, with the stock pump or the dry sump pump, oil pressure should
be solid and holding at the relief pressure within 5 seconds or so. If you have
a stock idle speed, (not the racing 2,200 RPM idle) it might take a few
seconds more to show some pressure, and it might not be much, like 40 PSI or so.
The bearings are so big that running without pressure will not hurt them at all,
if there is no load. So a fast idle for 30 seconds is fine. Even after
cranking without the plugs for a long time. The assembly lube is plenty for this
activity.

The dry sump pump produces 85 PSI at idle and holds at 100 PSI from just off
idle through 9,600 RPM.

Lynn E. Hanover