my stock oil pressure gauge is stuck. the needle just doesnt move at all... ever. even when i turn off the car it just stays there. what should i look for? is this an issue with the sender? or the gauge? or maybe the linkage inbetween?

i'm planning on swapping my beehive oil cooler with a front mount and changing the lines to braided steel soon, so i would really like to know what kind of pressure im getting. i've considered going aftermarket but i'd rather just keep the stock setup.

any suggestions are welcome

 

The connector may have some oil on it, or your sender may be bad. I doubt that it is the gauge, but anything is possible after 20 years. There is a way to ground test the gauge, I believe there is a thread on this issue. I know the condensor that is mounted on top of the engine towards the rear is part of the oil sending unit and has to be connected to let the gauge operate properly.

 

Usually, wtih the stock ROPR, a mechanical gauge will read 60-70 cold and 50+ when hot. You can install an aftermarket gauge in the stock location BUT be sure not to rush and do it slowly. Then put a "T" to accommodate for stock and after market gauge.

 

well my gauge climbs up to 100 psi just by turning the key to the on position.(engine not running)

 

you must have a short.

 

you mean this thing thats not connected? (see pics)

 

No, there should be a small silver condensor bolted on top of the rear engine plate, it's a little over an 1" long and connects to I believe a brown wire which in turn is wired into the same wire that connects to your sender. Mine was doing the same as BLOWNandTWISTED.
Todd