SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE-SEC. 8A OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR GAUGE

*****PLEASE DISREGARD IMAGE ONE OF THIS BULLETIN (ELECTRICAL SCHEMATIC). THIS PAGE DOES NOT APPLY TO OLDMOBILE MODELS.

This bulletin is an update on a 1992 1/2 engineering change, to the 1992 Silhouette oil pressure indicator gauge.

The oil pressure gauge, for the 3.1 L (VIN D) engine, was previously fed by a variable resistance oil pressure sender (Kelsey-Hayes). The variable resistance sender has been changed to an oil pressure switch (HI-Stat), with a 68 ohm resistor in parallel with it.

This engineering change will create a functional change in the operation of the oil pressure gauge. The oil pressure gauge will show a 3/4 scale reading during normal engine run conditions, on the 3.1 L (VIN D) engine. It is normal for the oil pressure gauge to stay at a 3/4 scale reading, with the ignition switch in the "OFF" position.

The enclosed pages reflect the changes in the schematics, diagnostic charts, and the circuit operation.

Reminder: Always check the engine oil level first when performing diagnosis.

CIRCUIT OPERATION

OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR GAUGE (VIN D)

A two-position switch opens with oil pressure greater than approximately 24 kPa (3 psi), directing current flow in CKT 231 through a 68 ohm resistor to ground. This causes the Oil Pressure Indicator Gauge to deflect to approximately 3/4 scale.

OIL PRESSURE GAGE (VIN L)

A variable resistor is part of the Oil Pressure Sender/Fuel Pump Switch. With no oil pressure, the resistance of the variable resistor is approximately 1.0 Omega. At an oil pressure of 550 kPa (80 psi) the resistance of the variable resistor is approximately 88 Omega. The Oil Pressure Gage applies voltage through CKT 231 to the variable resistor in the Oil Pressure Sender/Fuel Pump Switch. As the resistance of the variable resistor increases, the Oil Pressure Gage senses a larger voltage drop across the variable resistor, indicating high oil pressure. As the resistance of the variable resistor decreases, the Oil Pressure Gage senses a smaller voltage drop across the variable resistor, indicating low oil pressure.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.