to trust the gauge or not.....

[timothyr1014]

86 6.9
normally the oil gauge sits on the high side of normal...once it had fluctuated when it was 8 quarts low (don't ask....theres a reason I am the only one who drives my truck now). this morning it registered normal for about 2 mins, then dropped below the "L"...as it soounded normal I let it run for another 5 mins....no odd or unusual noises...I am thinking the gauge just gave it up, at the same time I really dont want a "semi-educated" guess to turn into an engine replacement.

Thoughts

 

[Fishin76]

The factory gauge drops off at about 5 psi oil pressure. I would get a real oil gauge on it in a hurry.

 

[timothyr1014]

will get one tonight, I just needed the truck for a quick lumber run...the fact that sitting there with the engine turning 1500 rpm sounding totally normal has me thinking the gauge functions as well as my fuel and charge gauges

 

[Fishin76]

My oil gauge is the only one that works like its supposed to. Both of my tanks register empty after getting to a half tank, and (like others here) my ammeter never shows anything, always in the middle. My speedo don't work either ( no tach on my truck.)

 

[91crew]

My mechanical oil gauge reads good pressure while the factory unit won't even read up to the normal range.

 

[Agnem]

Replace the oil presure sender. This device has a potentiometer type component in it that can develop a dead spot and drop out on you. Replace it while your T'ing in your new aftermarket gauge.