Oil Pressure?

[darestie]

I just bought a 1993 D250. When the truck is first started the oil pressure builds up but stops slightly after the first line on my gauge. Give it a minute or two for it to warm and then it will go up to slightly under the second line. When driving it stays pretty much under that second line and won't move much if at all. It also never goes past the half way point, even at full throttle. Should I be worried? It seems like it should increase in pressure especially under heavy acceleration, but it doesn't budge. I know it needs an oil change if that makes a difference, probably get it done this coming week.

[gear jammer 91"]

The stock gauges in these trucks are not the most accurate. I would either add a mechanical gauge, temporarily or permanently, or replace the stock sending unit and see what happens. I can't remember what kind of oil pressure these engines are supposed to run at idle or at a cruising rpm, but I'm sure somebody will jump in here with that info.

[MMeier]

On the '93, mine will be at the third line in the normal range at cold idle, halfway between 3rd and 4th lines when criusing cold. Once warmed up sits at the 2nd line and cruises just a shade below the 3rd line hot. This is with 15w40 Rotella.

[89smurf]

My 92 runs about 55psi crusing on the highway and that is about centered in the factory gauge. At idle, I am seeing about 25-30psi (I can't remember the exact number right now) and that is just under the second mark on the factory gauge. All of these numbers are using an autometer gauge with electric sender. Take it for what's it's worth.

[Old 'n Rusty]

The dodge oil pressure sender unit is notoriously unreliable. If it just quit working it probably would not be so bad. What it does is fluctuates wildly indicating everything from perfectly normal to hardly anything at all. I have to change mine about every five years. I don't complain though because I nearly stole my truck because the previous owner thought the low readings were legit. It is also very important to make sure that the connections to the sensor are really clean, dry and secure. I should hook up the mechanical pressure gauge I bought years ago. Maybe I will do it this week as the electric sender is once more getting twitchy.