High oil pressure

[Kevin125]

Ok...2010 chevy tahoe 5.3l here...

So, my wife calls me and the check engine light has come on the dash, with the oil pressure gauge maxed out (Around 80psi) with tahoe running. Gauge goes back to 0 psi with engine off. And with the key on, not running, the gauge reads around 60psi.

What do you all think is going on here?

You think it's OK to drive it home? Bout 10/15 miles from her work?

 

[jeremiahm]

Can't says its OK or not, but mine did the same thing before the sending unit died.
My oil pressure was very low for a week or so, then pegged on the high side for a few days, then just stayed at 0 until I replaced it a few months later .

 

[Fless]

Check the code that set the money light.

It's most likely the sender and screen/filter that needs to be replaced.

 

[Kevin125]

Well...I went and got it, so shes home...I'll check the code as soon as I can and see what that says...I go back to work tonight, but I'll try n post what I find!!

 

[Kevin125]

Ok pulled the code and got....

P0521 Engine oil pressure sensor/switch range/performance

I'm hoping this means I need to replace the sensor? Any special tools I may need?

 

[Geotrash]

Ok pulled the code and got....

P0521 Engine oil pressure sensor/switch range/performance

I'm hoping this means I need to replace the sensor? Any special tools I may need?

It's a pain in the ass to get to when you have grizzly bear paws like mine. It's on top of the engine on the drivers side rear of the valley pan, behind the intake manifold and also behind a big plastic noise shield. If you have small hands, you can replace it without removing the intake manifold. But if you have bear paws, it's easier to remove the manifold to get to it. And when you do, throw that $%#@&% noise shield in the trash.

You'll also need to replace the little screen below the sender. The new sender will come with a new one because they clog easily and can cause the problem you're experiencing.

This little socket will make the job easier:

https://www.amazon.com/Lisle-13250-Pressure-Switch-Socket/dp/B0002SR2RY/ref=sr_1_3?crid=19O0EQR9YVUC1&keywords=oil+sender+socket&qid=1647548752&sprefix=oil+sender+socket%2Caps%2C71&sr=8-3

 

[Fless]

^^^ This. Auto parts stores carry these or similar sockets. Also a pick or a wood/deck screw to get that old screen out. (Clogged screens usually present as low oil pressure since they block the sender from getting any oil, so the sender thinks there's no pressure.)

 

[Fless]

Also it will help to have various ratchet extensions; I think I may have used a 6" one and maybe a shorter one with that. A flex head ratchet can make it a lot easier, too.

 

[Geotrash]

 

[wjburken]

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