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gauge shows no oil pressure

ALEXINATL69

Freshman Member
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I am writing this letter in hope that I can discover what is wrong with my 1993 Jaguar XJ6 Vanden Plas. Recently, I have noticed that the oil pressure gauge is showing low oil pressure when the engine is first started, at cold idol, the needle stays steady on the first mark above zero on the gauge. The needle does not move upon forward acceleration. When the engine reaches the normal operating temperature, there is a slight decrease in the oil pressure. When the car is allowed to coast, the oil pressure drops to zero and the oil light illuminates. The oil light remains lit until the accelerator is pressed, however: even with heavy acceleration, the oil pressure indicator refuses to point above the first marking above zero, on the gauge. Note: The oil level is full and the engine makes no unusual noises. I would appreciate any insight as to where I should begin to remedy this problem.
 
Oil pressure senders had some issues in these cars. It is located forward of the filter, under the intake manifold. If I remember correctly, there is an updated sender that requires a link harness with a diode in it. Changing this is not for the faint of heart as it requires a crows foot wrench, and good access from underneath the car.

If the oil and filter have not been changed recently I would do that, and be certain that the weight of oil used is what is specified in the owners manual for the temps in your area. I always use genuine Jag filters as well. Most chain lube places will fill it with 5w30 or something like that, and it is too "thin" an oil for the engine.
 
Howdy Alex,

I`m typ. on the Triumph Forum but have had several E-Types etc.

I`ve "ALWAYS" used "20/50" weight oil: Mine was typ. Castrol but any brand will do. It`s much "Thicker" than your std. 10/30 or 10/40:

Whether thats going to help your situation or not ????????????????????

Best Wishes,

Russ
 
My 1964 2.4L MK2 has the original sticker still on the oil fill cap:
"Originally filled with premium 20W40 oil".
I figured at 93K, 20W50 would be a good idea.
I used Kendall, as the local Brit shops discovered if you use up to "SL" it still has zinc for cam and follower protection.
"SM" and later, or so they tell me, does not.
 
does this mean the sending unit is sending false information to the oil pressure gauge, or is it sending the wrong amount of oil thru the engine, thus resulting in the gauge showing no pressure?
 
If you only had the gauge, I would suspect the sender.
But, you've got a light, too.
Is that a separate sender?
If it is, you've got low or no pressure.
Could be a serious problem, could be weak, light weight oil, could be a stuck relief valve, probably if the oil is old, change it out (with filter) for 20W50, and see.
If no joy, try a mechanical gauge to see what's really there.
 
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