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Engine light on and erratic oil pressure


PANTERA

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Hey all,
I changed the thermostat today, and after I took it for a 15 min drive. On the way home, the engine light came on, and noticed the oil pressure gauge bouncing around. I've been told that these gauges aren't really reliable, but the 18 years I've owned this truck, never seen this happen. The truck idles real rough too, so I don't know if that's related in any way. should I be real concerned?
Thanks,
Jason
FWIW, the engine idle drops as the needle on the oil gauge drops, so I don't feel that the gauge is just being "quirky". I think there is an issue, but not sure where.
 
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Coolguy21

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erratic oil pressure

I would replace oil pump oil screen and oil sending unit before she locks up and throws a rod
 
adsm08

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It sounds to me like there is an actual issue.

You can do one of two things as your next diagnostic step, you can do a mechanical oil pressure test, or you can take the oil filter off and cut it open.
 

PANTERA

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Thanks guys for the replies. How do I go about doing an oil pressure test, and what would I find cutting the filter open? fortunately I have a week off of work, and It'll probably take me that long! I plan on possibly pulling the oil pan off to see if the pick up is blocked after doing a pressure check. A few years ago I put a 3" body lift in, because I was too cheap. Now I think that will work to my advantage!
 
adsm08

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To do an oil pressure test you need to get an oil pressure gauge. Something in that shows in 1-pound increments is best. Then you remove the oil pressure sensor, install the gauge in place of the sensor, and then run the engine until it begins to act up and record the readings. You should have at least 20 PSI hot at idle, 30 or more is preferred in most engines.

Cutting the filter open lets you see what is in it. Knowing what is in your filter gives you a good idea of what is in your engine. The big thing you are looking for is anything shiny, like metal.
 

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When you pull the oil pan off clean it with an old rag and check for clumps in the oil. Also check the oil screen for hardend oil blocking the flow of oil
 
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PANTERA

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OK, I drained the oil, black, not milky, which is a plus. I then removed the filter, cut the top open and removed the element. It wasn't collapsed and was black, but clean, no metal particles in it, so I can only assume the problem is in the oil pan? To jack the motor up, my only option is from the bottom. I've been told not to use the oil pan as a jacking point, although Haynes manual says it's OK. Where else can I jack the motor?
 
fyre82

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You can jack from the crank pulley or from the bell housing.
I always put a piece of something between the jack and the jack point when I do a small lift like that.
 

PANTERA

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removed the upper intake manifold to get more clearance in jacking the motor up. I noticed oil on the gasket between the upper and lower intake manifold ports. Is that normal? I think I have enough clearance to remove the oil pan. what a pain in the ass!
 
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