So I got to take the 97' out this weekend off road and the oil light came on and started to hear some lifter noise like they were starving for oil. So I went to climb out of a big hill to get back to the trailer and was to sluggish to make it up. So I backed down and to a flat area to let it cool down before driving out to the trailer. I think it is the oil pump but wanted to check and see what you guys think before I start tearing into it. Thanks

 

Assuming you have plenty of oil(although sometime obvious is overlooked), while checking the oil pump, I would also check the pick-up tube for blockage. If you find all is well with oil pump and pick up tube, remove pressure relief valve and make sure it is not stuck open. if all is good there, you have to follow the path of the oil pressure, main and rod bearings, then on to the cam bearings and lifters and lastly, the rocker arms. Seeing how the lifters were noisy and engine was sluggish, more than likely the pressure is being lost before it gets to them. Just some food for thought.

 

Just thought i"d mention that this happens after about an hr of riding, then when it warms up the oil light comes on and it starts to foul up.