So on my 1999 Ford Ranger FX4 level 2 with 216,000 miles (cuz i know you guys like that info) Everytime I turn it on, the oil pressure gauge says nothing (needle at bottom) like no pressure. The instrument panel says CHECK GAUGE. I wait like 30 seconds to 1 min. then the gauge pops up to the middle (normal operating pressure?) It NEVER goes anywhere but the bottom or jumps to the middle, NOTHING in between. Does this mean my oil pump is going out? Or is it simply the sensor is going bad that reads oil pressure? Was wondering if you guys have seen a problem like this before. Truck runs great. super smooth. but if no oil gets to engine that'll be quite a problem. Oil level is perfect (recently changed too) transmissions fluid, all fluids are proper levels. Just the gauge is acting funny. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

 

Exact same thing happens too mine, except it jumps once it gets hot enough.

Ive been told bad bearings, but i need to put a mechanical gauge on mine, id suggest you do the same.

 

its never the oil pump. its probably your gauge or sending unit. if your not hearing knocking or other noises from the engine i wouldnt be concerned. the gauge will always read in the middle as long as your above 6psi which isnt very strong so the gauge is next to useless. look into mechanical gauge that give you an actual real time measurement.