292 Oil Pressure

[Short 3/4]

What is the preferred range of oil pressure in this engine? I tried looking it up in the factory book, but couldn’t find any numbers. It’s (I think) a ‘68 block, and was professionally rebuilt about 6 years ago. It’s now got about 25K on it.

My problem is one I’ve never heard of before. Instead of the oil pressure getting lower over time it’s getting higher ??!! It’s always been good, between 20 and 60 PSI, but lately it’s been between 50 and 80 (has a good aftermarket mechanical gauge). Not sure what kind of pump the shop put in, and I can’t figure out if the pressure is adjustable on this engine. Was pumping out a lot of oil yesterday (on the ground). I tightened up all the admittedly loose covers, and hopefully the rear main didn’t get blown out, but I’m reluctant to drive it until I can figure out what’s going on.

Thanks for any help,
Tom