Oil Pressure
#1
Oil Pressure
Oil pressure
not sure if this is the right area to ask this, but Mods, feel free to move it...
So my 96 Camaro has the “Check Gauges” light on. The temp isn’t too high, but the oil pressure gauge is just above the first white tick mark (pic included). Is that where it should be, or should I be doing an oil change now? I pulled the dipstick and it’s not perfect, but it’s nowhere near the worst I’ve seen.
not sure if this is the right area to ask this, but Mods, feel free to move it...
So my 96 Camaro has the “Check Gauges” light on. The temp isn’t too high, but the oil pressure gauge is just above the first white tick mark (pic included). Is that where it should be, or should I be doing an oil change now? I pulled the dipstick and it’s not perfect, but it’s nowhere near the worst I’ve seen.
Last edited by Jays; 01-26-2019 at 05:34 PM. Reason: Forgot to add picture
#2
I've attached pages from the 1996 Owners Manual that should explain where the gages should be reading when everything is working properly. If you think it is an oil pressure problem, I would remove the oil pressure sending unit and test with a mechanical gage to know for sure what kind of pressure the motor has. Usually, if pressure is low, the lifters will start clattering. Are your lifters getting noisy? The check gages light will also come on for problems in the charging system and the cooling temp. What do these gages show?
#5
This link will take you to a site where you can find the owners manual. You can also download a copy of the factory service manual here which can help you diagnose and repair your car.
Last edited by peterpar; 01-27-2019 at 08:00 PM.
#6
picture didn't show. if all the readings are normal it may be a computer issue. computer may be getting a different reading somehow. do any of the gauges look like they don't move?
#7
I'd verify pressure with a manual gauge. Is it hovering that low with the cold or warmed up? Either way, that low of oil pressure is not good. The general rule of thumb is 10psi for every 1000rpm, but more (within reason) is better. Low oil pressure (assuming your gauge is reading accurately) is commonly a sign of worn main bearings or a failing oil pump.
#8
I have been told a rule of thumb for oil pressure is 10 psi for every 100 horse power with warm engine
my engine idles at a 1000 and carries 60 psi when cold. once warm it will carry that 60 at cruising speed
my engine idles at a 1000 and carries 60 psi when cold. once warm it will carry that 60 at cruising speed