I am debating what to do with my 96 S10 2.2.
Truck is still running fine. but the oil pressure drops to near zero after it warms up at idle. and when its cold, the piston slap clatters like a diesel. (yes, i changed the oil pressure sensor)
From what i researched, the cam bearings are a common culprit for low oil pressure. this truck did have the head gasket replaced before i got it, and the head redone after i got it due to the timing chain slipping ad bending all 8 valves.
i am trying to do this myself of with assistance. questions:
what type of tool is required to remove and install cam bearings on a 2.2? is it the same as a small block tool?
Its not burning any oil to speak of (leaks a little and does not smoke) what to do with the bores? simply hone and replace rings? or bore how much? 10 over with new pistons (assuming minimal scuffing from piston slap. Are there any new types of pistons that minimize piston slap?
If the crank journals look ok, do i really need to get the crank ground?
I was possibly looking at getting front drive core to start work on to speed the process up and not lose the truck for driving. Any issues with using a front drive 2.2 other than the water hole in the head? I assume too from research it must be a 96-98 engine to be the same? do automatic or stick have different cams or flywheel mounts?
The head was just redone less than a year ago. can i just clean it and reinstall? or do i need to have it decked again?
The only other thought i had was there was a higher volume oil pump for the early 90's 2.2. i considered putting just a new hi-po pump in as a stop gap, but wondered if it would do much good.
Any other 2.2 tips?
Bob