ot: diagnosing oil pressure problems

[ezernut9mm]

a friend brought over a 2001 pt cruiser with the 2.4 4cyl na engine. the low oil pressure light comes on under about 1200 rpms warm. i think he is in for an engine overhaul, but i don't know for sure. he thought it was just a sending unit, but after seeing what conditions it comes on under, i think it is way more serious than that. how would i properly diagnose it for him? or can i? thanks.

[Ranchero50]

Correct fix is to temporary a mechanical guage so he can monitor it. Then if all is bad, some thicker oil and off to the sale it goes.

[ezernut9mm]

i'm guessing i will need an adapter of the correct size then a universal type mechanical oil pressure gauge set up. sound right?

[70shortwide]

id just run down to the local parts house and get a universal onne off the shelf. check to see that it has metric threads/adapters, maybe mention what your up to, they may be able to tell you if you need any different fittings if they are good... I bought one recently for my Jeep (american threads), it cost about 15 dollars and had a couple different fittings...

[ezernut9mm]

thanks guys. that sounds like a pretty good way to go about it.

[DuckRyder]

PT Cruisers are kind of known for issues with the engine wiring harness, definitely check it with a manual gauge.

[ezernut9mm]

i didn't even get that far. disconnected the wire from the switch and there was oil on it. led me to believe it was leaking. replaced the switch and all was good. stupid chryslers.

[Ranchero50]

Without Chryslers wiring, auto techs all over the world would starve...