I personally have no issue with 7# hot at idle in my car. The pressure starts at 50# at start up, kicks down to 30 after choke warms. On the freeway at 3500 rpm, I am at 40 to 50#.
As well, I would have your old oil if you have it still sent to Blackstone labs for an analysis. Blackstone will tell you if your engine is wearing poorly by breaking down contaminants, water, antifreeze, silica, aluminum, copper...etc.
Perhaps the engine wasn't broken in properly or bearing tolerances off. Oil pump bypass valve stuck open..pickup tube off or too close to pan, debris in bypass.
Since you may have no recourse with old builder, why not try a heavier oil with ZDDP? Rotella 15w40? Valvoline VR1 is what I use. I guess my point is this. You know you have a low oil pressure issue for unknown reasons. How much is the tear down and rebuild going to cost assuming new oil pump, bearings, etc. Probably $1200-1600.
I say change the oil out, maybe remove the oil filter housing and clean out the passages while you are there. If it breaks...it was meant to be. Address the issue when it breaks.
Just my .02
Si Vis Pacem Parabellum
1967 Starlight black PMD Engineering 400 Auto 1968 Alpine Blue 400 4 speed 1968 Verdoro Green 400 HO 4 speed 2013 1LE 2SS/RS Inferno Orange Camaro.
