Oil Pressure Gauge Circuit Test

1994 Plymouth Sundance Base, 2D Hatchback, 2.2 D, AutomaticSECTION Oil Pressure Gauge Circuit Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1994 Chrysler LeBaron. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: When a problem occurs with any gauge, before disassembling cluster to test gauge(s), check for loose connections or faulty wiring.
  1. Remove cluster bezel from instrument panel. Remove oil pressure gauge retaining screws (if equipped). Remove oil pressure gauge by pulling straight out from cluster. DO NOT  turn or twist gauge when pulling, or severe damage to cluster pins will result.
  2. With ignition on, check for battery voltage at oil pressure gauge (B+) pin in cluster. See Figure . Check for ground continuity at ground pin for oil pressure gauge. If voltage and ground are present, go to step 5).
  3. If voltage and ground are not present at pins, remove instrument cluster. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Check for battery voltage and ground at appropriate cluster harness connectors. See Figure and Figure . See WIRING DIAGRAMS  .
  4. If voltage and ground are not present at cluster harness connectors, repair wiring as necessary. If voltage and ground are present at cluster harness connectors, check cluster for bent or broken terminal pins. If terminal pins are okay, replace cluster printed circuit cluster harness connectors, check cluster for bent or broken terminal pins. If terminal pins are okay, replace cluster printed circuit board and retest.
  5. Ensure oil pressure sending unit connector is connected to engine. Connect tachometer to engine (if not cluster equipped). Start engine and let idle, noting RPM.
  6. Using ohmmeter, check resistance reading at oil pressure sender input pin of cluster. If reading is infinity, check sending unit and check for open in wiring circuit from cluster to sending unit. See SENDING UNIT TEST  . See Figure . Repair/replace as required.
  7. Raise or lower engine RPM to achieve correct resistance reading for "L" gauge position. Correct reading should be within 4 ohms of specification. See OIL PRESSURE GAUGE CALIBRATION  . Position oil pressure gauge onto cluster pins, and install by pushing gauge straight inward onto pins. Note oil gauge reading after 15 seconds. Remove gauge from cluster.
  8. Reconnect ohmmeter to oil pressure sender input pin of cluster. Check resistance reading while increasing engine speed until resistance reading meets specification for low end of normal range. See OIL PRESSURE GAUGE CALIBRATION  . Lock engine speed and install oil gauge into cluster. Note gauge reading after 15 seconds. Gauge reading should be at low end of normal range.
  9. Gauge readings will vary depending on engine RPM, oil temperature and oil viscosity. If resistance readings at cluster pin and oil pressure gauge are not very close to table specifications, replace gauge.
OIL PRESSURE GAUGE CALIBRATION

Resistance Gauge Position
100 Ohms L (Low On Gauge)
63 Ohms Low End Of Normal Range
30 Ohms 3/4 Of Normal Range
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.