Oil Pressure Gauge Problem

[davisk6]

I'm having a problem with my Defi oil pressure gauge on my SR. When we first installed the gauge, the sensor was bad. It didn't read any pressure at all. I received the replacement sensor the other day and now the gauge reads, but very low. Upon startup, it reaches around 10-15psi, but soon after it drops to around 5psi. Occasionally, it will drop to 0 when the car stops, but it will jump back up to 10psi. It's fairly inconsistent.

I also have a boost and EGT gauge set up and those are working correctly. The sensor is attached using the Greddy filter sandwich adapter. The stock oil sensor "idiot light" is not on and the engine is running fine. I have also not found any filings or other wear in the oil itself. Any suggestions as to what the problem may be?

[ILikeMy240sx]

You might actually have a low oil pressure problem.

Get yourself a cheap mechanical gauge from Autozone and try that out.

[davisk6]

I just picked up a cheapo gauge and I'll try it tomorrow.

[FSUDrifter]

yeah a cheap gauge is cheaper/easier than putting a new oil pump on. You probably know this, but if you hit something and dented the bottom of the oil pan, then the sump won't be able to pick up any oil. Very easy to fix, take off oil pan and hammer out with rubber mallet.

[S14Dorikin]

Sorry to thread jack/revive, but can you tell me where to get a new oil pressure sensor, I have a Defi gauge too and need a new one.

[davisk6]

I got mine from Rally Sport Direct (http://www.rallysportdirect.com). You will need to call them up and order it as it is not available on their online store. Also, be prepared to pay, they are not cheap and run around $120.

Also, to update this thread, I'm still working on it. I'm taking the car up to the shop this weekend to look over the oil pan, pump, etc... Updates to follow...

[S14Dorikin]

Alright thanks.

[davisk6]

Update: FSUDrifter was correct. There was a dent in the oil pan preventing the pickup from getting all the oil it needed. Swapped the pan off for an un-dented one and the pressure is great.

We switched to 10w-30 so the pressure is around 30-40psi at idle and goes up to 80psi cruising on the highway.