Hi Andrew and Aidan in reply to your questions oil pressure was the same with the old pump I agree if the pressure was to high it should affect the filter ,unfortunatley Andrew the head is off so I cant do what you suggest ,having looked again at the head gasket if you separate the gasket there is oil in between the gasket I am clutching at straws now so I am going to build it back up next week will let you know the outcome cheers John