GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

FALSE HIGH OIL PRESSURE GAUGE READINGS

1988 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.8L MODELS/YEARS LG3 (VIN CODE 3), 3800 LN3 (VIN CODE C), AND 3.0L LN7 (VIN CODE L) V-6 ENGINES

Some of the above listed vehicles may exhibit false high oil pressure gage readings during normal engine operation.

This condition may be due to a loss of ground to the oil pressure switch mounted in the oil filter adapter (refer to Figure 1). The condition may be confirmed and corrected by the following procedure:

1. Verify that oil pressure gage reading high.

NOTICE: Normal engine oil pressure should be approximately 20 psi at idle in drive, with the engine at operating temperature; and approximately 45 psi at 2000 E.R.P.M. in park with the engine at operating temperature.

2. Ground the bass of the oil pressure sensor to the negative battery terminal or a known good chassis ground.

3. If procedure stop 2 causes a correction in the pressure gage reading, remove and discard the four (4) bolts that attach the oil filter adapter to the front cover. Install a new oil filter adapter, gasket, part number 25529916 and replace the original bolts with four (4) bolts, part number 25534181. Torque the new bolts to 17 N - m (12.5 lbs. ft.).

4. Verify that the oil pressure gage is reading correctly and inspect the oil filter adapter gasket area for leaks.

If the above does not cause a change in the pressure gage reading, or if the new reading is below recommended minimum oil pressure, follow the normal service diagnostic procedure for the engine oiling system.


Object Number: 86923  Size: LF

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.