Electrical glitch

Mar 12, 2006 Last reply: 20 years ago 2 Replies
2000 Ranger XLT, 3.0 & automatic.

Every one in a while, the oil pressure gauge doesn't come up on start, but then pops right up after just a few moments of driving. I don't think I'm not getting pressure, or the engine would be toast by now. I think it's electrical/electronic because only about half the idiot lights come on when the key is turned, and the overdrive switch on the transmission is inoperative. Are these things on a common circuit?


I don't have a chassis electrical for that (mine goes up to 96) but you couldn't go wrong by checking the fuses with a voltmeter or test light.

If you haven't already .......

There are two openings on the fuse with metal visible. Check for voltage at *both* ends of the fuse.

If if *both* ends light/show voltage; the fuse is good.

If *neither* end show voltage/light; the circuit's not energised (look at the fuse description for what to turn on; then retest after doing that)

If only *one* end shows voltage; "it's dead, Jim"

There's another couple of possible fuse/fuseblock problems: Sometimes a fuse works its way loose. Try pulling each fuse one at a time and reseating it. While you have it out; look at the connector blades for corrosion or burn marks.

BTW; I've seen more than a few fuses that *look* good (the melt-link appears solid) but are open. Check them with a voltmeter,continuity checker or ohmmeter to be definitely sure. (unless the 'blow' is obvious!)

Always try the easy/free checks first....

David, what nobody forgot to mention is that if everything checks out good there, I would have your oil pressure checked, to make sure its coming up at start and not actually waiting. You could have a bad anti drainback valve and so your engine might be re-priming the oil pump evertime you start your engine. So to be on the safe side, have a shop check it out.

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