I have a F150 6 cyl. that when I start it the pressure is in the 40 - 60 range. After it runs a few minutes the pressure drops to 0. I have put a manual gauge on and have flushed the engine. The problem is still occurring. Help this was to be my sons Christmas gift.

 

With the manual gauge installed, this eliminates the possibility of electrical malfunctions. You have a good reading on initial start up and then goes to Zero. If I have the info correct. Not knowing how long its taking for the pressure to drop, is there any lifter clatter or other noise? Most likely the oil pump is starving for oil. The pumps screen could be clogged and need to be replaced. This is involved and requires lifting the engine to gain access for pan removal and repair. The oil flushes are not sufficient enough to remove the sludge.

 

I am having the same problem. Can drive about 50 yards, then the oil light comes on and guage drops to zero. Just drained oil and replaced filter. My concern now is that without removing the pan and cleaning the pump screen, how safe is it to drive her to the shop? If I stop and turn off the engine and restart, the pressure is okay for a short distance...I don't want to blow up the engine trying to get to help...should I have it towed?

 

To the above new member, welcome to the forum and you were doing some reading to tag onto a year old thread.

Without confirmation of pressure with a direct reading gauge, towing is your best option. On the other hand, just because the gauge is zero, if the lifters are not noisy, more than likely its got oil pressure and its an indicator problem. If you choose to drive to shop, go slow and try to avoid higher RPM'S.

 

Thanks for the welcome!! (Yes, I did a LOT of reading! Even though it was an old post, it seemed to be so similar to mine...) It seems that my oil filter was not attached properly...we changed the oil and filter, flushed and changed again. So far, that seems to have fixed the problem. The oil pressure is holding steady and the truck is running great! Hopefully, it was that simple...At least one can hope! If you have any other ideas, feel free to send them my way.
Ltd

 

So it went about 200 miles before losing oil pressure again. Had it towed. Mechanic says the pick up screen is probably clogged.
I am sure someone has already posted this, but I am having problems finding help...There are 2 men in my garage trying to lift the motor so they can remove the screen and try to clean it. Is there anyone who can give me detailed instructions on how to lift the motor to gain access? I am a little mechanically challenged, but the guys working are much better! One is really good with german cars and the other knows fords, but not the 2003 4.6...if you know of any good reference sites, videos or pics, please send me some links.
Thanks!!