98 Vortec 5.0 oil pressure

[Eskimomann209]

So I'm getting the red check Gauges warning
When I see the warnings pressure isnt registering

A quick pop into N makes it pick up

Sensor?
Oil pump?

Odo says 180k I've had her since 100k
And only a head gasket job

Oils at about four months old
And maybe 1500 miles

Don't remember the weight

Should I change to a thicker oil, lighter?

Should I start praying now?

 

[twomanymontes]

First thing to do is get a true pressure reading. You will need a mechanical gauge tapped into the port where the oil pressure sender is in. It should be roughly 10 psi for every 1000 RPM as a general rule. You could possible have a bad sending unit, low on oil, or a bad pump. But you need to know what the actual pressure is before tearing into the motor.

 

[someotherguy]

If it's not talking to you, your pressure is fine. Zero oil pressure - you would KNOW it, in a hurry.

Replace the sensor. Be very careful to support the brass elbow it screws into; it's crazy easy to break this off in the block and it's not fun to dig out.

Richard

 

[Eskimomann209]

Thanks gents
I'll replace the sensor

If it still acts wonky
I'll guage it