Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Oil light flashing intermittently while idling in drive

[Rampage]

I have a 96 CTD that I've noticed starts to flash it's oil light intermittently when I'm in drive and idling (like at a stop light, or something). I also noticed the oil gauge's needle also "tremors" in the normal range, albeit on the lower end of normal. The engine runs smoothly while this happens. If I put it in park, all of the above goes away. I changed the oil & filter about three weeks ago (it was doing the same thing then, but stopped after the oil change). I checked the oil tonight, it looked clean & at the proper level.
Any ideas?

 

[RProvost]

There should be a 1/8" pipe plug on top of the oil filter housing. Run a line from this to an inexpensive mechanical gauge mounted somewhere inside on the dash. I'll bet you'll find your oil pressure is fine. The sending units and gauges that came with the 12v leave a lot to be desired.

The gauge on my '98 will drop to 0 and the chime will go off sometimes when I'm coming to a stop. Gave me a heart attack first time it happened. I ran a mechanical gauge for about a year and determined the pressure was fine. Bought a new sending unit about 5 years ago, will get around to putting it in one of these days.

Rich

 

[Rampage]

Thanks for the reply. How much did the sending unit run you? How long do you suppose it will take to put it in? Also what is the normal range for the oil pressure in a 2nd Gen CTD?

 

[JKosten]

Mine sender failed at 244k miles. It was under $20 at the local parts store.

 

[Rampage]

Thanks to all who helped

As it turned out, the problem was with both the oil pressure sending unit & oil pressure switch. Thanks again!

 

[Jason]

Rampage,



I am having the same problem with my 1998. I have replaced the sending unit, where is the switch and how do you check it?

 

[JKosten]

The sending unit and switch all all-in-one. It is on the block near the power steering pump. Not really easy to access...