I have a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500, 4.6L V8 (289). When the engine is warmed up and I come to a full stop the "check gauges" light comes on and the oil pressure drops to zero. If I rev up the motor it goes up again only to drop again if I do not hold the revs up. I searched lightly yesterday on the possibilities and came up with replacing the oil pickup (where is this on my truck?), or replace the plenum http://www.****************.com/smf/...p?topic=9504.0

Any input of what this might be or where I should start in my diagnosis would be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys!

 

First, make sure it NOT a gauge problem!!!!!!!!! it could be reading LOW.. and under 20 psi. stop reading.

 

How can I check the switch? Pull out the instrument cluster and use a multimeter?

 

no. there is a electric sensor on the engine...
since the gauge in the dash moves .. it is most likely Good.

the sensor is fairly cheap.. I would just replace it..
or take it to a Shop and have them test the system.. or temporality hook up a mechanical Gage to read oil pressure.

 

How is the oil level in your truck? That is the first place I would start.

 

I'm going to replace the sensor since its a very cheap part. My buddy is coming over this weekend and will hook up a mechanical gauge to read the oil pressure. I'll double check the oil level just to eliminate the simple stuff. Thanks guys, love the support for fellow DIY's.

 

Hey bud. Haven't seen you in a while and certainly not up this way.

I agree with changing that oil pressure sensor first. Remember it gets grounded in the block so make sure the threads are clean.

sure you got a 4.6L in it? Isn't that a Furd engine? You ain't go no Frakendodge do you? LOL

 

Its been a while since I've been on here. I moved from Valdosta to KY by Cincinnati a few months back. I'll make sure the threads are grounded like you said. sorry about the 4.6L, lol, my caddy is a 4.6 and sometimes I switch them up. No frankendodge for me, lol. I'll put in the oil pressure switch Sunday and report back.

 

Ummm....
I would start with an oil change and a FRESH oil filter.
Your filter may just have a bunch of debris in it or is just faulty

Start there...

 

I'm only about 500 miles into my fresh oil/filter change.