Oil pressure question

[FiatColombia1]

I have an '83 with around 78,000 miles

What would be a normal pressure at idle?

what would be ideal pressure at lets say 4000-5000rmp?

I have a big leak in my exhaust pipe between the catalytic conventer and the the mid resonator (where it makes a high curve, but havent have the chance to fix it). can this affect this oil gauge readings?

Thanks

Francisco

[So Cal Mark]

oil pressure at idle with a hot engine will probably be in the 10-15lb range, 30-40 at speed. An exhaust leak will not affect oil pressure, but the fumes could make your eyes blurry and make it hard to see the gauge clearly

[FiatColombia1]

yes I need to fix that pipe!!

Well my car reading is 0 when idle and about half way or 55 when in highway, I feel strong acceleration... but that 0 at idle makes me worry!

Im trying to take care of the mechanics before getting it ready for paint.

Thanks Mark

[So Cal Mark]

you can't always trust the stock electrical gauge, hook up a mechanical gauge to accurately test the pressure

[FiatColombia1]

Ohh yess Good Idea! thanks

[mdrburchette]

I'd be more concerned if the oil light came on. Like Mark says, the oil pressure gauge is rarely accurate.

[FiatColombia1]

yes I just confirmed, started the car again today and the pressure at idle was about 15....I'll get me a mechanical one.