oil is in the pan but wont show on the dipstck and oil pressure is low?

Question

I just bought a 2.3l 94 ford ranger, naturally the first thing i did was change the oil but the oil didnt show on the dipstick untill the next morning. so when it showed i thought everything was fine. then i drove about 300 miles and my check oil light showed up and the oil wasnt showing on the dipstick anymore. Also the oil pressure gauge shows no pressure (at first i thought it was busted but now im not so sure).

anyone got any idea of whats wrong?

Answer 1

Been a while since I've seen this happen. I suspect that the cylinder head drain back holes are clogged. When you poured in the oil it took time for the oil to drain into the pan. When the engine is running the oil accumulates at the top of the cylinder head through the rockers over time. Pull the valve cover off and clean out the drain holes and try not to allow too much of the debris down below. Drain and replace your engine oil afterwards.

Answer 2

Miles on the engine? Did you or did you have someone change the Oil & Filter? Added at Least 4 Quarts? Engine Oil System Needs to be Flushed!! 300 Miles, Little or No Oil Pressure! Oil Light On, How Much Noise Does the Engine Make Now?? Is 210,000+ Miles About Right?

Very Likely you're Ready for a New Engine Now??

Answer 3

Sounds like you either didn't put enough oil in it, it has a leak, or you have an oil pressure situation. That vehicle is almost 14 years old, so problems with the engine would be expected on a vehicle that old.

Answer 4

Worn oil pump is the first thing that comes to mind. Oil can be slow running to the pan if the engine has much sludge inside. If the oil level was correct the next morning I say the oil pump has a good deal of wear.

Answer 5

Is the engine "gunked" up and stopping the flow of the oil? Thats weird.

Answer 6

low oil in the vehicle