1994 Pontiac Sunbird Oil Light

Tiny
PROFESSORCHAOS96
  • MEMBER
  • 1994 PONTIAC SUNBIRD
Engine Performance problem
1994 Pontiac Sunbird 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

One day a few weeks ago, I started the car and noticed the oil light was on. I immediately shut it off, restarted it, and it was fine. Today, it happened twice, though every time I shut the car off it's fine. I have encountered pretty much every other type of problem except an oil issue. Could this be a faulty pump? Sending unit? Any help would be appreciated!
Monday, December 28th, 2009 AT 6:57 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Hi professorchaos96, Welcome to 2carpros and TY for the donation and selecting us as your auto repair site Feel free to ask questions at anytime and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2010

What we need to do here is check the oil pressure with a mechanical gauge if its normal replace the oil pressure sending unit abnormal readings w/o any type of engine knocking noise means the oil pump pressure relief valve is sticking-Try engine flush might loosen the sludge/debris in the pump-
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Monday, December 28th, 2009 AT 8:25 PM
Tiny
PROFESSORCHAOS96
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Where does the gauge hook up to check the oil pressure? Also, shutting off and restarting the engine usually fixes the light; so I'm doubtful it's the pump because it came on after a stop at the gas station today, I shut the car off and restarted it and it was fine, then I continued to drive for about another 300 km without issue. About the pump/relief valve being clogged - I have my doubts because The top end of the engine is basically brand new, and even after 5500 kms on this oil change the oil is still light in color. Also for the record I use Mobil 1 Synthetic and change it every 10000 km. Should I still follow your procedure? Or do you think it's something to do with an electrical/sensor issue? One more thing I'd like to mention is I am using a Fram oil filter, and have heard some horror stories about them, but It was all that was available at my last oil change. Could it be there is an oil filter issue? Thank you for all your help, and for the quick response! I will donate more as soon as I get the funds!
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Monday, December 28th, 2009 AT 8:57 PM
Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
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I've been using Fram products ever since they market it-my choice the orange can. Remove the fuel pump/oil pressure sending unit and install the gauge

Normal Oil Pressure 65 psi

Notes

Rear Of Engine Compartment (Automatic)


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/12900_oil_pump_8.jpg



Lower RH front of Engine Compartment, below Electronic Ignition (EI) system
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Monday, December 28th, 2009 AT 10:38 PM

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