Need help with two problems

[dmengel]

I've got a 98 X sport with 4.0 sohc 80,000 miles. I just finished intake maifold gasket replacement and am back to more pressing issues. First, upon start up at cold temp (45 or below) my oil pressure gauge registers no pressure and after a couple min pops up to normal...not good

Second, I've got a vibration in the front end. When I hit a bump it sounds like the wheel is coming off. The dealership had replaced the front diff and have had the hub bearing replaced twice in 1500 miles. It's got new sway end links and looks to have had cv shafts replaced. I've got tire wear on that wheel that looks like the tire has drag on it (sloped lugs) My concern is the ball joints and tie rod end...Any help would be great

 

[James909]

The oil pressure issue is probably just the oil pressure sender. You could try cleaning it or checking the pressure with a mechanical gauge. But it may be easier to just replace the sender as they are cheap.

The second issue sounds like it may be a worn ball joint. Especially since there is a noise going over bumps and the tire wear is uneven. Jack up the truck and on each side grab the tire at 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock. Try and rock the tire, if you feel any play then the ball joints are worn. You can check the tie rods this way too except grab the tire at 3 and 9 and feel for play. And if there is play no matter where you grab the tire then it is most likely the wheel bearing.

 

[marragtop]

The oil pressure gauges are basically dummy gauges. It's either on or off. Try smacking the dash board above the gauge after you first start it. If it jumps up right away, then it's just a sticking gauge. My 95 does it quite a bit.

 

[dmac0923]

youll need to check your tie rod ends with the vehicle on the ground. have a buddy slightly wiggle the steering wheel while you watch the tie rod end. it will be obvious if they are loose and need replacing.

 

[dmengel]

Hey thanks for the help...I'll get back as soon as I figure it out