Question: erratic oil pressure gauge

[cop1270]

once in a while the oil pressure gauge on my "91" Roadster will go all the way to the right where it vibrates for a few seconds before returning to its original position. Has anyone else ever experienced this condition.
Thanks

 

[jgr91vette]

i had that problem on my 91 vette and it was due to a lack of 1lt of oil in my engine, have you check your oil level? ..

 

[TWISTERUP]

once in a while the oil pressure gauge on my "91" Roadster will go all the way to the right where it vibrates for a few seconds before returning to its original position. Has anyone else ever experienced this condition.
Thanks

These cars are known for oil sender problems-sounds like what you have.

 

[JimBobC4]

I think you have a bad oil pressure sending unit or a bad connector or wire going to the unit.

Yes I've experienced it in more than 1 GM and Ford vehicle.

 

[Dougs91]

Happened to my 91 as well, turn the car on and the sensor goes all the way to the right and sat there. Go get a new oil pressure sensor, and problem solved.It's behind the distributor. Doug

 

[the5150]

Go to the Zone with $20.00

Dougs91 is correct. The oil pressure sender had a recall in the 90s (see below; bad ground. AutoZone sells the unit for $19.99. It is a bear to get to, so have a deep well socket on the ready and lots of paper towels. The replacement is plastic, so be mindful when torquing.

4. TITLE - Oil Pressure Sending Unit
YEAR(S) - '90-'91

PROBLEM - Some owners may experience a sudden lost of oil pressure or erratic oil pressure readings. Check your oil level. If the oil level is ok and no unusual or loud noises are coming from your engine then you may have a bad oil pressure sensor. Check by removing the senders electrical connector and look at the bottom of connector. If oil is presence on the end of the connector then the sensor is bad.
CORRECTION - Replace the oil pressure sending unit

SERVICE BULLETIN/RECALL: 91-451A-8C

 

[TedC]

For my 1989 L98 I found that the oil pressure unit (switch and pressure sensor) from NAPA was a little better quality. The one I puchased from AZ was made in Mexico (black case), and the one from NAPA was made in the US (gray case). Before installing, I bench tested both units, and found the NAPA unit much closer to specifications. I used a deep socket as well, but Pep Boys sells oil pressure sockets. Glad to hear you solved the problem.