1927 B oiling

[IanSlade]

When I set off on a run I get no oil coming through the dripper for about 5 miles or so, followed by a steady stream for say, 20 seconds. Then I might see nothing for another few miles . Does the erratic manner of the feed indicate an oil pump that is worn and struggling to build up sufficient suction to pull some oil through? I have tried many settings for the regulator but am unable to obtain a steady drip. (ooh nurse!) but it's quite worrying and when I tried to see how fast she would go on a straight bit of road she nipped up. TIA

[cmfalco]

Does the erratic manner of the feed indicate an oil pump that is worn and struggling to build up sufficient suction

Since I only put ~10 miles on my new-to-me 1928 C before tearing it down for a nearly-finished total rebuild my answer is largely theoretical.

The pump itself would have to be very worn indeed not to push most of the oil along, creating a vacuum in the line from the tank. Hence, rather than the pump, I would suspect an air leak at the connectors at either end of the oil line, or in the gasket around the sight glass.

[adrie.degraaff]

At my 1926 B oildripping starts after a wile but more important if you stop the engine the bottem of the oilglas must fill as a result of the still existing vacuum.
Rule one; never nickel or chrome the oiltube connectors becouse they will leak, it must be bare brass.