Comprehensive Guide to Oil Pressure Gauge Kit for Norton Commando
An oil pressure gauge kit is an essential accessory for any Norton Commando owner who wants to monitor the health of their engine’s lubrication system. This comprehensive guide will cover the typical oil pressure readings, the benefits of installing an oil pressure gauge, the process of setting up and calibrating the oil pressure relief valve, and the technical specifications of the oil pressure gauge kit.
What are the Typical Oil Pressure Readings for a Norton Commando?
Understanding the normal oil pressure range for your Norton Commando is crucial for identifying potential issues with the engine’s lubrication system. Here are the typical oil pressure values you can expect:
| Condition | Oil Pressure (PSI) |
|---|---|
| Cold Engine | 60-70 PSI |
| Warm Engine at 3000 RPM | 40-50 PSI |
| Idle | 5-10 PSI (common and not alarming) |
| Rocker Feed Pressure | 20-30 PSI at 1500-4000 RPM (can be lower, especially once the motor is warmed up) |
It’s important to note that these values are general guidelines, and your specific engine may have slightly different pressure readings. Monitoring the oil pressure and comparing it to these ranges can help you identify any potential problems.
Why Should You Install an Oil Pressure Gauge Kit on Your Norton Commando?
Installing an oil pressure gauge kit on your Norton Commando offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Engine Monitoring: An oil pressure gauge provides real-time feedback on the engine’s oil system, helping you identify potential issues before they become critical.
- Maintenance: The oil pressure gauge allows for early detection of problems such as low oil pressure, which can indicate issues with the oil pump, bearings, or other components.
- Preventive Maintenance: By monitoring oil pressure, you can prevent engine damage that could result from inadequate lubrication.
How to Set Up and Calibrate the Oil Pressure Relief Valve?
The oil pressure relief valve is a crucial component in maintaining the proper oil pressure for your Norton Commando. Here’s how to set up and calibrate it:
- Understand the System: The oil pressure relief valve is typically located in the timing cover. It’s essential to ensure it is properly set up to maintain optimal oil pressure.
- Tools and Materials:
- New gaskets and seals
- Shim material (if necessary)
- Torque wrench
- Socket set
- Procedure:
- Disassembly: Remove the timing cover to access the oil pressure relief valve. Be prepared for some oil spillage.
- Inspection and Adjustment: Check the valve and its components for wear or damage. If necessary, shim the valve to adjust the pressure setting. The goal is to achieve the specified pressure range (e.g., 60 PSI cold).
- Reassembly: Reinstall the timing cover, ensuring all gaskets and seals are in place. Tighten bolts according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Verification:
- Start the engine and monitor the oil pressure gauge to ensure the pressure falls within the acceptable range. Adjust the relief valve as needed until the desired pressure is achieved.
Technical Specifications for the Oil Pressure Gauge Kit
The oil pressure gauge kit for the Norton Commando typically includes the following components:
- Compatible Models: The kit is designed to fit the Norton Commando and Atlas models.
- Installation Requirements:
- Gauge Mounting: The gauge is typically mounted on the handlebars using a provided bracket.
- Engine Connection: The kit connects to one of the rocker oil feed connections, usually via a 5/16 BSF 22TPI thread.
- Components:
- Oil gauge (50mm diameter)
- Handlebar mounting bracket
- High-pressure hose
- Adaptor fittings
- Stainless steel connector to engine (banjo connector)
- Plastic oil line and protective rubber line
- Installation instructions
By understanding the typical oil pressure readings, the benefits of installing an oil pressure gauge, the process of setting up and calibrating the oil pressure relief valve, and the technical specifications of the oil pressure gauge kit, you can ensure your Norton Commando’s engine is running at its best and prevent potential issues before they become costly.