Question on Oil Pressure Guage

[DallasTDi]

New to this forumn, but active in others. I have an issue with the oil pressure guage.

On random occasions, the OPG will read zero until the car is driven for about 2 miles. Idling the car will not bring the pressure up. On most occasions, 1 second after starting, the gauge pops right up to a normal level. The random occasions happen only after the truck has been parked (not running) for more than about 6 hours, happens in both hot and cold weather, and only occurs about 3 or 4 times a month. Totally random in all aspects. The oil level is fine and the oil is synthetic 5w-30. Getting to the dealer is a major hassle, so I am trying to avoid that. And yes, the "check gage" light lights up for as long as the OPG is on zero.

Does an oil pump flake out or go out alltogether? Any other suggestions on what could be the cause. Does anyone else have this issue?

Thanks for your help.

 

[Howard]

Welcome

It sounds more like dirt/gum in the pressure switch or rail itself. Try remove the switch and clean it out.

 

[greg762]

My 2001 XLT does the exact same thing. I'm going to have the dealer take a look at it during my 30k service next month.

Greg

 

[Bill Kemp]

Mine does the same thing untill I rap the plastic cover in front of the gauge . I think , at least on mine, that the gauge just sticks sometimes.

 

[TPLYNCH]

It's a common problem. Read thru the attached results of a searc for "no oil pressure on startup" http://www.explorerforum.com/forums...d=269767&sortby=lastpost&sortorder=descending