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Oil Pressure Guage/switch problem ?

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Old Aug 21, 2005 | 04:28 PM
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Oil Pressure Guage/switch problem ?

Everytime I change the oil I notice that the oil pressure guage won't read immediately, obviously due to little or no oil pressure in motor until oil recirculates/pressure builds up. I have started to notice this on every start up now, not just oil changes. When I start the motor the check guages light comes on for about 3-4 seconds until the oil pressure guage starts indicating pressure. Maybe I haven't paid too much attention to this in the past but is this normal? If I stop the motor and restart the pressure usually indicates immediately. Anyone else experiencing this? Any possible solutions before a trip to the dealer?

Thanks for your input.

2004 Excursion 4x4 limited.
 
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Old Aug 21, 2005 | 04:48 PM
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try putting about 1/2-1 quart of oil in the oil filter housing on ur next oil change before you start the engine. This is usually due to the fact that when you change your oil the filter housing is empty (which is where your pressure switch is located) and takes a second to build up.
 
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Old Aug 21, 2005 | 05:13 PM
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I thought that when the cartridge is removed (or when the filter is pushed upward by the spring) the oil just drains to the pan on the 6.0 PSD until you tighten the cover.

Bob
 
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Old Aug 21, 2005 | 11:04 PM
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I just changed the oil 900 miles ago, I'll try adding to the filter housing on my next oil change. But, what about now at every startup? Check guages light comes on and oil pressure guage doesn't move for about 5-7 seconds (after start up). Then the light comes off and the guage moves to a normal reading. I am worried about this as I seem to remember that the oil pressure guage gave a reading right at start up not later. Any help would be appreciated, or is this normal and I have only started to realize this.
 
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 10:51 AM
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Anyone else experiencing this? Any reply would be good as then I can at least go to the dealer and hopefully get it fixed!!!!
 
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 11:16 AM
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How much oil did you put in at the oil change and what is your level now? With the dip stick fully depressed.
 
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 11:22 AM
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15 quarts per the manual, level is full on dip stick
 
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 11:33 AM
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Just an FYI:

Oil Level Check Tip:
When checking the oil level on the 6.0, the vehicle must be on a level surface and the dipstick must be fully seated into the tube to ensure an accurate reading. Do not add oil if the level is above the "MIN" line on the dipstick. Broadcast Message 1512, 1574.


Many of us here recommend adding 13.5 - 14 qrts at oil changes as 1.5 - 2 qrts are retained in the engine causing over fill conditions. Min mark to mid hash mark would be typical.

Overfill can result in a multitude of bad conditions. Foaming being one of them.

I am not sure if your symptom can be a result of to much oil ...but, something to think about anyway.
 
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 12:29 PM
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I will put in about 13.5 on next fill, maybe that is why I have a little bit, not much, of oil around the bell housing.... I know this may be a problem with some of the motors. I pulled off the rubber boot and felt around and it is dry on the inside!! Maybe my leak is seeping from up top...
 
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Old Aug 22, 2005 | 01:00 PM
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Have you replaced your oil filter cover "O" ring when yu change filters?

Oil Filter Lid Leaks:
To prevent leaks from the oil filter cover, be sure to replace the sealing o-ring when performing oil changes. Torque the cover to 18 ft/lbs. If leaks continue to occur, check the housing for burrs and the lid for damage. If using an aftermarket filter, try a factory one. Broadcast Message 3403


If are are seeping oil from the filter cover I wonder if that could affect your oil pressure as well? Never know...could be that simple.
 
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Old Aug 23, 2005 | 12:59 PM
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I change the o ring at every oil filter change. I always check to see it it leaks as well and its dry!! I will just take it in, may be as simple as a new oil pressure switch...who knows. This weekend I may drain the oil and only add about 13.5 quarts and see where that leads me as well.
 
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Old Aug 23, 2005 | 01:05 PM
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Good luck...let us know what happens.
 
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Old Aug 29, 2005 | 09:07 PM
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I went to the dealer on Friday and I told my adviser the problem. He stated he could take it in but felt he would be wasting my money cause he would end up, more than likely, changing the oil and filter and charging me about $ 100.00. He stated when you install a non Motocraft filter it can cause problems with not keeping oil in the filter housing, hence a delayed response from the oil pressure guage. He advised to install a Motocraft oil filter instead of the cheap napa gold oil filter you can get online (which is what I installed when I changed my oil). I did what he said and went to Wal Mart and bought a Motocraft filter. Installed it and drained about 1 quart out of the motor. No more problems!!!!!
On a side note with oil changes, I was told that when my dealer does perform oil changes on the 6.0 's they only add about 14 quarts. If the level is good after running it they do not add another quart (recommended 15 per manual). I also spoke with one of the Tech's and he recommended, claiming Ford approves, only using Motocraft 15w40 or Shell Rotella 15w40. Stated other brands can cause foaming??? I have been using Chevrons Delo 15w40 cause you can get a good deal at Costco and or Sams club. I haven't had a problem with this oil and it meets the API standards that are listed in the Ford Diesel supplement. Anyone heard of only using Shell or Motocraft oil?
 
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