Oil pressure sensor problem

labzman3

Seaman
Joined
May 22, 2003
Messages
66
I just recently purchased my first I/O,, a 1985 Starcraft with a Mercruiser 120. My control panel has a light for the oil, I am assuming it is like an idiot light on a car, and is suppose to light up till the engine builds pressure. If I ground the wire, the light comes on, which should mean the sending unit is bad. But after spending $20.00 on a new sending unit today, the light will still not come on when the key is first turned on. Any ideas fella's ?? Thanks,,, Going crasy and broke !!!
 

flashback

Captain
Joined
Jun 28, 2002
Messages
3,987
Re: Oil pressure sensor problem

Labzman, forget about the idiot lite and get an oil pressure gage, then you will know what is happening at all times.......... probably get one from west or boatus for about 20 25 bucks.....
 

labzman3

Seaman
Joined
May 22, 2003
Messages
66
Re: Oil pressure sensor problem

Flashback,,,, If I only had the room,, on the instrument panel !!! But you are right,, I'm going to do some figuring today,, maybe I can mount a gauge somewhere else ? I was also thinking last night,,That sending unit may be for a gauge,, gradually going to ground more as oil pressure builds up ? Just one of a couple problems I need to work out,, before getting this boat out on the water...
 

Boatist

Rear Admiral
Joined
Apr 22, 2002
Messages
4,552
Re: Oil pressure sensor problem

Labzman<br />I have nothing against guages but I know for me a light and buzzer will get my attention 95 percent of the time faster than a guage. Sure I check the guages when I start up I check the oil pressure and voltage and when get up on plane watch the temp until I see the thermostat open. After that I am watching the seas and the nut on the PWC the boat two swells ahead the girls on the nude beach and maybe the depth. Get the guage but also fix the light or add a busser. You can get sending units that will go off at 5 or 10lb of pressure. You can get a kit with a light and busser.
 
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