Engine oil pump

[kev131]

Replacing the engine oil pump isn't a subject often discussed here but I guess it's required from time to time.

What are signs that a replacement is needed or is it just a routine job after so many miles?

Plus.... is this a typical price for one for a 2000 TC?

http://www.ebay.de/itm/Olpumpe-Fiat-124-Spider-2000-131-Rally-Racing-new-oli-pump-/360478973800?pt=DE_Autoteile&hash=item53ee389f68

[mirafioriman]

Reasonable price for a new one I guess.

I'm definitely in the if it ain't broken don't fix it camp! Not really a service item it should last the life of the engine.

[daverwd]

agreed it should last the life time of the engine ..
however i have had the drive gear that runs the oil pump shaft & the distributor fail on a 2000T/C with 1000,000 miles on it ... it's only a small toothed cog but left me stranded in kerry one saturday afternoon

[Thotos]

I agree with the Daves above  The oil pump is the least wearing part of an engine as it the best lubricated part of an engine  It's extremely rare for an oil pump to be worn in a good engine so the only time to replace the oil pump is when rebuilding an engine. In fact when rebuilding an engine you should always replace the oil pump even if the old one seems fine. But the oil pump drive problem mentioned above is a common failure in these engines. It happened to me twice, first in my 124 and killed the engine and then again in my Silver Sport but I knew better by then so the engine was fine. I now always replace the drive gear when I get a car as at under ?20 for the gear and about 10 minutes to change it's very good insurance 

[mirafioriman]

Who supplies the drive gears Theo?