Oil Pump: Inspection

2004 Acura 3.5RLSECTION Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002 Acura 3.2CL, and 2001 Acura 3.2CL. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Check the inner-to-outer rotor radial clearance between the inner rotor (A) and outer rotor (B). See Fig 1 and INNER ROTOR-TO-OUTER ROTOR RADIAL CLEARANCEΒ  table. If the inner-to-outer rotor clearance exceeds the service limit, replace the oil pump assembly.
    INNER ROTOR-TO-OUTER ROTOR RADIAL CLEARANCE

    Application Specification - In. (mm)
    Standard (New) .002-.006 (.04-.16)
    Service Limit .008 (.20)
  2. Check the housing-to-rotor axial clearance between the rotors (A) and pump housing (B). See Fig 2 and HOUSING-TO-ROTOR AXIAL CLEARANCEΒ  table. If the housing-to-rotor axial clearance exceeds the service limit, replace the oil pump assembly.
    HOUSING-TO-ROTOR AXIAL CLEARANCE

    Application Specification - In. (mm)
    Standard (New) .001-.003 (.02-.07)
    Service Limit .005 (.12)
  3. Check the housing-to-outer rotor radial clearance between the out rotor (A) and pump housing (B). See Fig 1 and HOUSING-TO-OUTER ROTOR RADIAL CLEARANCEΒ  table. If the housing-to-outer rotor radial clearance exceeds the service limit, replace the oil pump assembly.
    HOUSING-TO-OUTER ROTOR RADIAL CLEARANCE

    Application Specification - In. (mm)
    Standard (New) .006-.007 (.14-.19)
    Service Limit .008 (.20)
  4. Inspect both rotors and the pump housing for scoring or other damage. Replace parts if necessary.
  5. Remove the old oil seals from the oil pump.
  6. Gently tap in the new oil seals until oil seal driver bottoms on the pump. See Fig 3.
  7. Apply liquid thread lock to the pump housing screws.
  8. Reassemble the oil pump.
  9. Check that the oil pump turns freely.
  10. Clean and dry the oil pump mating surfaces.
Fig 1: Checking Inner-To-Outer Rotor Radial Clearance
G00298139Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.