So im finally getting to the point of reassembling my engine, but there is only one thing that is bothering me. My oil pickup screen is caved in slightly from either piston shrapnel or from when I was taking the pan off. I'm running a boundary stage 2 pump and I am worried about the extra oil pressure sucking the screen off. I cannot move the screen by with my fingers at all and its only out of the pressed together ring at one part. My buddies are all telling me its fine and if i'm worried about it I should just rip the screen off. (sounds like a bad idea to me)



So, should I run with it as is, take the screen off, or find a new one?

 

Find a new one.

I'd be worried about one of those loose wire fragments coming loose and getting sucked in.

 

With that out of the way, your uber pump isn't going to suck the screen off, but after doing all the work you just did and having such easy access to the part right now, why not fix it for peace of mind?

Cheaper and easier now than after you've put the engine in the car.

Your buddies are idiots, don't listen to them.

 

Very true words. I have a new pickup ordered now.
Out of curiosity, has anyone taken the screen off? I doubt there is any real benefit if any at all compared to the risk.

 

I mean yes the screen can be removed but it’s a catastrophically stupid idea with zero benefits. The screen is much larger than the pickup inlet to offset any drag from the screen. Every wet sump engine ever made uses a pickup screen for a reason.