OhioLariat

I've never been a fan of gauges that aren't gauges, like the oil pressure "gauge" in the 10th-Gen F150. If you're like me, are not afraid of tearing into your instrument cluster and getting your hands dirty, and would like to have a REAL oil pressure gauge, read on!

Since February, I've been running a conversion module from Mark Olson at Accutach . This module converts the "dummy" gauge to one that actually functions. I'd intended to do a full install write-up, but the phone with which I took the pictures died, and took with it all the photos. Never fear, however, as the installation guide includes clear instructions with lots of pictures of its own.

The kit uses an Auto Meter 2242 sender (purchased separately) to replace the OEM pressure switch. Retrofitting this sender on a 4WD truck is a bit tricky due to having little room to work, but it *does* fit in there. (Note: Contrary to reports I read, a 45° street fitting is not required.) 2WD drivers should have a much easier time of it. I re-used the factory wire, adding a short length of wire and a lug to facilitate connection to the new sender.

Below is a video of the gauge working. Note: This conversion also RETAINS the low oil pressure idiot light.


I hope some of you find this interesting, and if you have any questions, I'll do my best to answer them.

P.S. Right-click and "Save As" to download the install instructions.
P.P.S. Since the link is wonky, I attached the Install Guide here for easy reference.

z168

mbb

You dont have a gauge
you have a needle that moves

A gauge has #s and is calibrated, and gives information

oil pressure is not needed to operate engine.
All you need to know is....when you have too little
and an idiot light suffices for that on most vehicles until end of engine life.

I like oil pressure....but its not needed on daily drivers today. Engines are reliable enough.

OhioLariat

It's not tied directly to RPM. The needle stabilizes when the oil pressure does.

white89gt

Tell that to 3V owners.

OhioLariat

I guess by Merriam Webster's definition it's not, but "gauge" is the typical term for automotive indicators with a movable needle. Neither the fuel level gauge nor the temperature gauge have numbers or calibrated scales, but I'd pose that both relay important information due to their variable response to their respective sensor inputs. (How would you like to have only a "low fuel" light that just told you you had 1.5 gallons left 60 miles from the nearest gas station?)

The trouble with the "idiot gauge" is it switches at 6 or 7 PSI in conjunction with the light, so it's pretty much worthless. It (and the light) is really only an indicator that you have "some" pressure or "no" pressure. That "some" pressure may not be "sufficient" pressure to give adequate oil flow to avoid engine damage. With this mod, one now has a functioning indicator of a relative pressure. I know where the needle lies normally, and if I see it begin to change, that may be an early warning to investigate why, rather than waiting for potentially catastrophic failure.

No, this mod (just like most) isn't "needed," and will not be for everyone, but it does serve a purpose. I didn't post about it to start a discussion or argument about its merits (or lack thereof). I like it, and I figured others may appreciate knowing it's out there, too.

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ngoti8tor

This mod is a lot better than running with just an "idiot light".

white89gt

I like it.. I think it's a good mod even if it doesn't have numbers.

mandingo32

I got a sneak peek on this. It's a cool concept while leaving the look OEM. Glad you were able to get it completely. Great job...

OhioLariat

Someone messaged me about this, so I thought I'd bring it up to the top for another trip down the list in case others have interest.
Still working fine.
..