Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Oil Pressure Test
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NOTE: Inspect the engine for installation of an aftermarket oil filter. Review oil and filter maintenance history to make sure that the vehicle has not gone beyond the standard Ford recommended oil change intervals. Check the engine oil level and check the oil for contamination. If the oil is contaminated, engine damage can occur, the source of the contamination must be identified and repaired as necessary.
Run the engine until normal operating temperature is reached.
- Remove the oil pressure switch. REFER to: Oil Pressure Switch .
- Connect an commercially available Oil Pressure Gauge to the oil pressure switch port.
- Record the oil pressure gauge reading at 700 RPM, 1, 200 RPM and 1800 RPM.
- Compare the oil pressure recordings to the specifications, REFER to: Specifications .
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NOTE: The oil pump and the oil pressure regulator are mounted internally to the engine front cover and are serviced only with the engine front cover. There are no parts available for service.
If the pressure is not within specification, check the following possible sources:
- Insufficient oil
- Oil leakage
- Worn or damaged oil pump
- Oil pump screen and pickup tube
- Excessive main bearing clearance
- Excessive connecting rod bearing clearance
- Damaged or missing piston cooling tube
If the concern is not evident, verify the symptom. GO to Symptom Chart - Engine Performance .
- Remove the commercially available Oil Pressure Gauge from the oil pressure switch port.
- Install the oil pressure switch. REFER to: Oil Pressure Switch .
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.