can a oilpressure sensor leak?

[ochten]

It seems to be that I still have traces of oilmist nearby the oilpressure sensor. (The undertray is wet) I removed the sensor, cleaned it and sealed all the connections with locktide and new copper shims. Can a oilpressuresensor (the big one under the airfilterhousing) leak??

[Barkychoc]

I've had one go on an old car - so I guess the answer is yes!

[RM75]

Yes, the original type of sensor is well known for it. This might help... http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

[ochten]

Thanks!! Fantastic information and very clear. Is the sensor from another source (like Ford) or special made for the Speed Six engine?

[RM75]

I've only seen them on TVRs - the TVR part number is E6559. They are about £60 in the UK.

[ochten]

I just bought a VDO Oilpressuresensor (Type 30/138) by Ebay for 15 GBP (till 10 bar, 144 PSI) Just to test if another type gives the same information on the display. Pressure is pressure I should say.

[PetrolHeadPete]

Inside is a resistance track and wiper that moves with pressure
The exact resistance range is important to give the right reading
They leak because there are rubber bellows inside that seal the oil away from the wiper piston
But they perforate with age and oil comes out through the plastic body holes

Spent ages searching for equiv...no joy

[RM75]

Just to add that apparently the new type sensor reads lower than the original. My car has the old one and reads about 60psi at 2000 rpm and even warm idle is 22 ish. When cold it reads high 80s at idle!

[ochten]

As soon I have the VDO sensor I will compare the pressures with the original one. Keep you posted!