2007 Vectra 1.8 vvt oil pressure issues

[e460rob]

Story goes, bought a vectra c 1.8vvt super cheap with a few issues i plan to fix in spare time. When purchased it looked like the oil cooler gasket had gone as there was plenty of mayo in coolant system and oil pressure light, no signs head gasket failure. So removed oil cooler and gasket looked proper ropey so changed that out. Started up fine but after after about 2-3 minutes the oil light comes on and gets very noisy up top. Light goes out when revved so now im thinking oil pump has gone. I have removed both oil solenoids in the cylinder head, replaced oil filter which looked a bit ropey and new oil and still get the light on when warmed up. Is there any other possibilities before i go both feet first into another oil pump? Many thanks

[e460rob]

Thanks for the advice chaps, if the strainer turns out to be fine am I looking at a new oil pump? Many thank's

[e460rob]

Right update, have fitted replacement oil pump and sump gauze with fresh oil, still taps a bit, then tapping goes and oil light returns after 5 mins once warm and remains rattly up top, where do i go from here guys. I despise being beating so not giving up yet. I noticed i seem to have a damaged camshaft phase solenoid which when disconnected the tapping goes, the red tagging you see should have a black sleeve which secures wiring pins. Could these be connected?

[e460rob]

Would i not hear alot of knocking from the crank area if they were badly worn?

[e460rob]

Ill take a recoding tomorrow and post it up. Its definitely a top end tap than a bottom end knock but im no expert.

[e460rob]

I appreciate your response but could you illaberate on the explanation for those of us who are not mechanics by trade. Many thanks

[e460rob]

You think i should cut my losses and run then? Thanks for all your help chaps