Olds64

Hello,

I noticed the other day that my oil pressure sensor is leaking like a sieve. There was a puddle the size of a silver dollar after about 5 minutes of idling.

I bought a replacement from the auto parts store. When I install it do I use teflon tape on the threads?

I want to make sure it doesn't leak anymore, but I don't want to install it incorrectly. I'm not sure if the threads are leaking now, or if it is the old sensor. I do know that the old sensor installed correctly when I originally assembled the engine (it didn't cross thread). I didn't put teflon tape on it originally.

Any advice is appreciated.

citcapp

I use teflon tape and have had no leaks. I like it better then thread sealing compound plus it is easier to get the fitting out at a later date as it does not seize in place

MDchanic

It's a pipe thread (a tapered, self-sealing thread).

They always get Teflon tape.

Machine threads (like compression fittings) do not.

- Eric

rocketraider

Be aware that teflon tape or pipe dope can affect the ground path for the sender resulting in it not working. It will still bulb test with ignition switch on as it grounds thru the ignition switch for that.

Olds64

Thanks for the info gents. I will install it and keep everyone updated.

MDchanic

Not to be a troublemaker, but have you seen that, or is it theoretical?

I've never seen threads wrapped with a reasonable amount of Teflon tape (1-2 turns) where the metal didn't show through somewhere after screwing it in.

- Eric

Blk71SX

there will be enough metal to metal contact even with tape to provide a ground. looking from the threaded end, wrap clockwise. wrapping the other direction can wad the tape making it less effective

Olds64

Yes indeed. I'm always careful when I install teflon tape to make sure it is installed correctly. My old man taught me well.

Olds64

I replaced the oil pressure sensor last night at 2100. I used teflon tape and cleaned the threads thoroughly. I let the car idle for 10 minutes and it didn't leak!

When I removed the old sensor I noticed that the top of the sensor was saturated with oil, apparently it was leaking.

$7.00 to fix an oil leak is a pretty good deal. For awhile I was afraid the rear main seal was leaking and getting the bottom of my engine oily. I'm glad I didn't have to remove the engine.

Oldsguy

Yeah, good work!

MDchanic

They leak around the crimp between the metal and the bakelite on the top.

Just replaced mine with one from eBay - Standard Auto Products, NOS in the box for $2.50, had it thrown in with something else I was ordering. Previous owner had let it pi$$ all over the engine for years. Great rust preventative!

- Eric

Olds64

I just bought mine from O'Reillys. It works great now!

Jamesbo

Yep,

You was drug up good.

mike's88

It's a little late, seeing you already replaced and no leak. I prefer to use teflon paste, this way, I only put a little dob on the threads, as you screw it in, it spreads around on the threads, and no chance of a loose piece of tape getting in the engine.

Olds64

This is something I thought about. Fortunately, I only used a small amount of teflon tape. FWIW, I never use teflon tape on transmission cooler lines for the same reason.

BILL DEMMER

i'm surprised the new piece didn't have a sealant on the threads already.
myself, i would use a liquid sealant. if using teflon tape, i space it back one thread from the end to eliminate the possibility of stragglers.


bill