Pontiac Repair: oil pump, crank shaft, oil sending unit

Question
I have a 2000 Pontiac grand am gt. It has a tapping noise on top of motor. just replaced oil, filter and oil sending unit. still making noise. what could be the problem? its not loosing pressure and the oil light has came on a few times. if it is the oil pump where is it located at?

Answer
Hi Jeff:

what engine is in this V6 or 4 cylinder? does it have a lot of miles on it? If it's loosing oil pressure chances are its NOT the oil pump the engien is worn out. the bearing on the crank shaft and the cam(S) wear out and it will loose oil pressure due to the increased clearnces in the engine. I would put a mechanical gauge on the engine in place of the electrical sender and run the engine untill hot and see what your pressure is. chance are it's low if the light comes on and you have top engine noise..  if the pressure is low you have 2 choices pull the engine out and fix it right or band aid it and use a heavier grade of engine oil.. that will only last a shirt time and then your going to have to have it take out and repaierd anyways.. good luck :)