My stock Oil pressure guage is acting up.
It will go from 30 to 0. then slowly back up after I turn hard, etc. I feel like I'm gettiong inacurate readings. I have full oil, I've only driven about 200 miles since I put more oil in.
After it drops to 0, I can be driving and have it not move, until I hit a bump then it will go back up.
If I turn off the car, then start it back up, It with be right. about 60 inch lbs @3k rpms.
It is below freezing here about 20+ degrees and I'm using 20-w50 oil.

Should I buy an aftermarket oil pressure guage, or is it just because I'm using heavy oil and it's cold? Or is it something I don't want to hear?

-Thanks,
Ian

 

Probaly just the sender unit acting up. Clean off the connection to the sender, and make sure it is connected securely. Also, you really should be running at least 10w-something, that 20w50 is like thick syrp on startup.

 

I know, It's good in the spring though, I didnt have enough money to buy both types.
Also, the car doesnt run hot. It runs at it's normal running temp. So it's most likely the sender?

 

You really need to either make sure that the stock sender/gauge is working properly, or verify the pressure with a mechanical gauge. You cant assume anything going off the stock gauges, especially if you are trying to relate engine oil temps from the stock coolant temp gauge.

 

Huh, I don't understand.

 

I mean, you cant just look at the coolant temp gauge and assume that the engine is getting adequate oil pressure. You need to confirm the presuure, either by fixing your stock sender unit/gauge setup, or installing an aftermarket mechanical gauge.

 

I'll be doing that as soon as I can. wouldnt the engine run hotter due to lack of lubrication?

 

To see a rise in coolant temps from a rise in oil temps would take considerable heat buildup, especially to the point where the stock gauge could see it. About to the point where it would be too late.

 

i shoudl just go otu and buy 3 guages, one for oil pressure, one for old temp, and one for coolant temp, huh?

What are the best guages that don't cost much?(I'm a highschool student)

 

You should also change your oil to a 10W30 if you are starting below 30F.