Hey guys, I have a 2000 Jeep Cherokee Sport. When the engine warms up and when I stop (idle) the oil gauge drops to almost nothing, and the check gauges light comes on. The engine doesn't idle rough, or act up when this happens. Once I hit the gas the gauge goes back up. Any ideas? I was thinking about changing the oil pump, but heard its a decent amount of work. I also heard about changing the control board or something before I do the pump. Any idea where that's located and the approx. price for that part?
Thanks In advance for you're help. Its greatly appreciated.

 

I would change the sending unit before messing with the oil pump;
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/o...-unit-1071342/

It might just be that the sending unit is clogged or failing -- plus its pretty easy to change/inspect.

 

I would verify pressure with a mechanical gauge before I did anything.

 

Then try some thicker oil.

 

The sending units for these things frequently go out. You need to check oil pressure with a reliable mechanical testing gauge before making a decision.

Another problem is that gunk in the passageway builds up and prevents an accurate reading. While you've got the sending unit out poke around in there with a zip tie or piece of tubing, see if anything comes loose. Good time to do an oil change as well.

What kind of filter is on there?

By the way, you'll get a lot more eyeballs in the OEM Tech section. Cherokee Chat is for roof racks and one-upping each other with pictures of rust.

Check this thread out: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/oil-pressure-180883/

Oh yeah, great idea. Instead of troubleshooting a problem just do random **** and hope it's relevant.

 

Thanks everyone, I greatly appreciate you're responses! I'll check the pressure and go from there.
salad: Sorry, just looked for the quickest thing because I was in a hurry. I do have plenty of pictures of rust, it aint a jeep if it doesnt have rust...my rockers are proof of that!

 

Pumps don't make pressure...just read my signature.

 

Only if you don't know what you are looking for. Thicker oil can tell you a lot.

If his oil pressure goes back to normal, guess what?


My brothers wrangler had a bad sending unit. His wifes cherokee has a bad motor. Thicker oil can tell you this. Now he just runs 20/50 in the cherokee. replaced the sending unit in the wrangler.

 

But you won't have any pressure without them

 

You won't have flow. Put a gauge on a garden hose without a nozzle or sprinkler on it, you have zero pressure until you put your thumb over the end of the hose.

 

LOL, this is not an argument. I was just saying you will not have any oil pressure without them.

Flow causes pressure as well. NO flow, no pressure. Just a play on words.

 

Ok, no pressure...without flow.

 

Yes sir. It is surprising though how many do not know what causes oil pressure in a motor. More times I find the restrictions being the cause. Rarely is it an oil pump.

 

20/50!? Jesus, I run 5w-30.

 

Yep, me too. I have even ran 0 weight. But I have a good motor. you also.

If your motor is on its last leg. Sometimes you need the thick stuff.