Oil pressure gauge & sender....

F

Ford Freak

Well-known member
Hey guys! What is the easiest way to test an electric oil pressure gauge & sending unit? Mine don't work. Thanks in advance! - F F
 
Check for power from the ignition switch to the gauge. If that's working remove the wire from the sensor and ground it. With the ign key switched on the gauge should go to max pressure.

Depending on the year(?) there may be a small voltage regulator just for the dash gauges.
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If it is the 56 that test won't work. That sender (one year only) uses a bi-metallic strip to send a signal to the gauge. The rest of the Ford line uses resistive senders and the outlined test works perfect to isolate the gauge, wiring and VR from the sender. Grounding the lead at the sender says all is good from the ignition switch to the sender if the needle swings fully over.
 
dmsfrr said:
Check for power from the ignition switch to the gauge. If that's working remove the wire from the sensor and ground it. With the ign key switched on the gauge should go to max pressure.

Depending on the year(?) there may be a small voltage regulator just for the dash gauges.
.
Click to expand...

I have power to the gauge. When I remove the wire to the sensor, ground it, & turn the key on, the gauge does go to max pressure. Does this indicate a bad sensor?
 
Ford blue blood said:
If it is the 56 that test won't work. That sender (one year only) uses a bi-metallic strip to send a signal to the gauge. The rest of the Ford line uses resistive senders and the outlined test works perfect to isolate the gauge, wiring and VR from the sender. Grounding the lead at the sender says all is good from the ignition switch to the sender if the needle swings fully over.
Click to expand...

Sorry, I forgot to mention that this is an "aftermarket" AutoMeter brand electric oil pressure gauge. It was in the car when I got it. I have used AutoMeter in the past, they are good quality & reputable.
 
Talked to a tech man @ AutoMeter, he also said it had to be a bad sender unit. I ordered a new one. Supposed to be here by Saturday. Thanks to those who helped me w/this! = F F
 
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