How do you know when you should be looking at an external oil system? I have a RB 493. I have been running a stock oil pump, 3/8" pickup, 7 qt pan, and never had a problem. I shift at 5800 and cross the stripe at about 6200.

Also, single or dual line pickup? What is the major difference?

Thanks in advance, Bob

Look at your oil pressure gauge next time you cross the stripe. If you're holding 60+ psi then you don't need the hassle of an external system.

The external system is probably only needed on Hemi engines which consume a bunch of oil. I don't think I've ever seen a big block system which really needed an external system but there are probably a few 8000 rpm B1 combos running around where it comes in handy.

i am putting a milodon single line in my 470 for peace of mind. make sure your oil galley passages are completely clear. from the research i did at one point chrysler had a sand cast issue in there narrowing and choking oil flow. andy finkbieners big block book goes into alot of that. theres good research info right here on moparts. as seaeed above, your oil gauge will let you know. do you already run a hi vloume pump. if so do you have a pressure adjustment on it. do your research. good luck

I've read Andy F's book. I researched here and on other sites as well. Then I found this...http://www.milodon.com/oil-system/chrysler.asp

From everything I have read:
-6500 RPM and down are fine with a stock pump(HV), but after that, a better system is required.
-Dual line is a must after 7500 RPM to accommodate enough volume.
-Converting from a 3/8" to a 1/2" isn't going to accomplish much as the tube of the pick up is the real restriction.
Am I on the right track here?