TribalTatz said:
I understand that there is already a oil pressure "sensor" but everything I have been reading says the 2000 Si goes through oil a lot quicker than most other cars. Since oil pressure is so important to VTEC, I figured an oil pressure "gauge" would be an easy way to keep an eye on it. I was just wondering if it is an easy installation and if anyone may have some instructions/suggestions/pointers on puting one in.
oil pressure and oil capacity are two different things.
oil pressure requires capacity so by the time you realize your out of oil via oil pressure gauge method, your already f**ked.
someone in this thread commented that electrical oil pressure gauges are the way to go. so wrong in my opinion. with the mechanical oil pressure gauge you get a more accurate reading more quickly and at a fraction of the price of those electrical gizmo's
when it comes to the install of a gauge (mechanical) its not too bad but can be a little frustrating if your determined to do it properly. what you need to do is get some stainless line and a (i think -8an fitting) and basically tap into the oil orifice where your pressure sensor is.
you run that line with an ample amount of slack (for motor torque and vibration) to a t fitting that you can easily zip tie or mount onto the firewall. within the T fitting, you add the pressure sensor and the oil pressure gauge line.
i use this setup on motors that dont have a sandwich adapter. in my opinion sandwhich adapters are a gift from the gods. not only do they leave less room for error, but they make it easier to access the oil filter when i do oil changes.
actual purpose of an oil pressure gauge? well obviously to see oil pressure. the key thing to note here is when your revving a motor high, or boosting lots you want to keep an eye on your oil pressure for consistency. a decrease in oil pressure over time imply's that your conrod bearings are going bad. if you can catch this before the motor spins you can definatly save your investment.
for the first two months of break in for my motor i kept a notepad in my glovebox and recorded warm oil temp pressure at idle and at 3 grand and then at 5 grand.
this is the purpose i have an oil pressure gauge. it helps you determine whether or not your bearings are playing by the rules.