Would you prime the oil pump after a new head and timing components for an Evo 9? Or will the mivec intake gear be fine when I do timing and install/start the motor over. Only ask because the Mivec is currently NOT under pressure and clicks after a full rotation or so.

 

you shouldnt need to prime the system but its easy to do if you would like to just unplug the fuel pump or injectors so it doesnt try to fire. pulling the plugs will let the engine turn over more free and faster. As far as the mivec gear goes, it will stay static at its most retarded position until the ecu commands it to a more advanced position. basically during a prime or lor rpm idle condition, the gear will not have oil pressure in it.

 

Well, talked to the head tech at STM tuned cause I used to work there and Correction. Unplugging crank sensor is not as efficient as spinning the oil pump with a drill. And you can mess up the mivec gear by not building pressure in the system. So before timing on an Evo 9 or any variable valve timing car. Spin the oil pump to build pressure and you won't have to unplug crank sensor/injectors to start.
Worked like a charm.

 

Hey glad you got it figured out. I know STM well and have been buying parts from them for years. I was the lead tech at CBRD SpeedFactory for about 4 years before the owner Chad Block took on another career path. I have built many many evos, gtrs, subarus, porsche, audi, and everything in between. After CBRD I was a tech and engine builder at IAG Performance doing subaru stuff. Im now a lead performance tech/engine builder at Kassel Performance specializing in all BMW and A90 Supra. Evos are still what I know and enjoy the best. To add a little bit about how the mivec oiling system operates,,, oil pressure is provided by the pump through an oil galley at the back of the block, The mivec hardline should have a check valve in it that allows oil pressure to the solenoid and then the gear. I would advise against using a drill to turn the oil gear, although that does work,, sometimes especially if the oil is cold or thick, there will be a decent amount of resistance while turning that gear. If the resistance is higher and the drill used is decently strong or one of those hammer type drills, they can actually over torque the nut or even break it off completely. There are many ways to skin a cat as they say. As far as using a drill to prime the system, this will work, oil pressure will get into the mivec gear but at low priming pressure it will not be enough to advance the cam and the solenoid will not allow it unless commanded by the ecu. which isnt needed during a priming situation anyways. In your situation you have accomplished everything needed as far as priming, and that is to get oil in the hardline and to the gear. Please let the community know if you have any further questions or interests.