Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) erratic oil press gage readings......Help!

[Jim Ross]

My factory oil pressure gage is giving very erratic readings... normal, then zero, then partial, then zero, then normal, etc. By normal, I mean approx. 40. Sometimes the red dash light comes on and I hear the warning chime, sometimes there is no red light or chime.

I'm guessing the oil pressure sending unit is bad... ... no increased engine temp or unusual engine noises.

About 3 yrs ago, I replaced the same sending unit, the cost at Cummins was $68, no big deal. Today, the local Cummins dealer told me the original "3 pin" sending unit has been replaced with a "1 pin" sending unit and I will need to go to the Dodge dealer to have the part installed and the computer reflashed. I have less than 91,000 miles on my '01, is this work covered by warranty? If not, is there some way of me having this work done some place other than at the dealer?

Help/advice, please!

 

[Cummins724]

I'm not sure about the replacement change, but it sounds like it is a bad sending unit. I would try to find the original part elsewhere..... call the dealer & ask... . it won't hurt to ask.

 

[Stepthru]

Try cleaning your battery terminals. I had the same problem about a year ago.

Louie

 

[Jim Ross]

Thanks, Louie. You just might be right. I had both my batteries replaced last summer and the shop liberally applied baking soda because both the old batteries were leaking acid... ... maybe cleaning the terminals and posts will be the answer... I sure hope so! I'll try it in a day or two and post back here to let you know what happens. Thanks!