Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications General Mods Oil pressure gauge install problem.

Just installed the Autometer electrical oil pressure gauge on my Mystique. Problem is that when I apply 12 volt power to the gauge with everything hooked up correctly the needle goes past the 100psi mark and stays there.
The sender is installed and the wire has does not have a short and is properly grounded. I have tried multiple 12 volt sources with same results.
I get the same result even if the car is not running.
I tried a search on oil pressure and no one has posted this problem. I have been reading this forum for about a year and a half since I purchased my car and I have complete faith in the people of CEG to send some info or suggestions my way.

Later

You didn't use teflon tape on the threads of the sender did you? Autometer specifically says not to and I think your problem may be why. Just a shot in the dark.

did you hook-up the gauge without disconnecting the battery? whatever happened the gauge is probably perminently damaged.

First rule of working on a car is to disconnect the battery. No disrespect intended.

PA 3L SVT,

I did use teflon tape on the threads, but can I ground the sender a different way.
Also I didn't see not to on any of the paperwork that came with the gauge.

Hmmm, I seem to remember reading it somewhere, but can't find it now. I did look at the PDF files from autometer.com on installation and they made it seem like they were optional. i.e. "sender should be automatically grounded when installed, if not ground properly". Sorry.

Its a ground problem.the sender has to be grounded,hence no teflon tape,the threads are tapered,hence no leaks but makes ground.Its a standard way to check 'single' connector senders Vs gage fault.Get rid of the tape,a full needle deflection should not have damage the gage.TH

Thanks Terry.

i have another question. is 'not' using the teflon tape ONLY for the grounding issue?

Reason: i used a small amount of teflon tape on my oil pressure gauge (i didn't see the reccomendation either) but the gauge works fine. This may be a dumb question (some may say, it's working...leave it) but the teflon tape won't "cause" any damage or anything would it? Just wondering if i should go digging and re-install it again.

Thank you!

If its working you can be sure the tape was cut on the install and the sensor is making a 'ground'.