2.3L ('83-'97) Adding mechanical oil pressure gauge

[rosscob]

I've got an '88 XLT with a 2.3, 5 speed manual that just has an idiot light and I want to add a mechanical oil pressure gauge. From what I've read the original sending unit is located on the drivers side near the back of the head. There's so much crap on this engine that I can't even see it. Is there any other place on the motor where I can tap in to get a gauge working?

 

[ericbphoto]

I've got an '88 XLT with a 2.3, 5 speed manual that just has an idiot light and I want to add a mechanical oil pressure gauge. From what I've read the original sending unit is located on the drivers side near the back of the head. There's so much crap on this engine that I can't even see it. Is there any other place on the motor where I can tap in to get a gauge working?

I believe it is possible to add an adaptor between the oil filter and the engine block that would provide ports for oil pressure sensing and also for remote oil cooler.

 

[scotts90ranger]

It's right here, get yourself a "street tee" in 1/8" NPT (literally what it's called, male threads on one end and two female threads). It's kinda tight in the rig but doable, I've messed with the one in my '90, booster is right where you want your arms, or you could do it from the bottom just harder... The oil and coolant senders are shown in this picture, oil is the upper one.

 

[rosscob]

Thanks. I looked earlier today and I know where it's supposed to be, I can't even see it. I've seen what they call a "sandwich" adapter, I think that's what ericbphoto is referring to. They're $25 or so but it looks a lot easier that trying to get to the stock sending unit.

 

[4.0blue98]

These sandwich adapters are pretty good. Just make sure you still have clearance to get the filter on and off. I'm not a big fan of using a shorter, lower capacity filter in this case.

 

[RonD]

You access the oil sender from under the Ranger same as oil filter

 

[rosscob]

I'll take a look at it tomorrow. Just spent 4 hours mowing my lawn so I'm done for the day. Thanks.

 

[scotts90ranger]

You must have one of the intakes with the 4 runners inline instead of a square... come to think of it on my '97 I'm not sure you could see it from the top... would be doable from the bottom but tight...