The oil pressure sending unit screws into a dedicated passage. The pressure reading is from the whole area that the passage connects to. Since oil doesn't actually flow through this passage, it's a great place for crud to build up and never get flushed. The zip tie will knock any blockages loose so you get an accurate reading again.

If you have the pan off you can probably also use brake cleaner or pour some SeaFoam down the hole and flush it out.

 

He used it as a reamer to clear the passage in the oil sender elbow, cleaning out the sludge, which was causing his low oil pressure reading. A piece of wire, pipe cleaner, straightened out jumbo paper clip, chunk of automotive wiring, household wiring, hairpin, bobby pin, could all be used as a substitute. Me, I like the zip-tie.

Salad's gonna make a video of the procedure, using all of the different items that can be used.

 

Very helpful. I have been getting a low reading when its hot outside sometimes all the way to zero while at a stop light then when I gas it goes back to a lil below 40..

 

Im going to have to try the zip tie idea. Maybe there is something in the blocking the sensor up some.

 

I think it's worthwhile.

 

In fact, he's going to be financing a series of tutorial videos on different methods of cleaning the passageway!

 

With every shade tree mechanic's tool mentioned in Post # 17.

 

I am running about the same as you in my 95 Cherokee 4L engine with 230K miles. What is the recommended oil pressure?

 

13 psi at idle minimum.

What brand of oil filter are you using?

 

Oil pressure is more of an engine wear meter. Some people have high mileage xjs and the pressure reads really low but it still runs good. If your jeep isn't acting weird don't worry about the pressure

 

Just put new seals on the oil filter adapter. I was running great before and still is just lower oil pressure reading. Still running great at 230K. Thanks everyone.

 

A+++ best answer yet.