low oil pressure at idle, 94 Runner, 3.0 V6 SR5.

[ih8seals]

i just noticed this morning, when i first started it, every thing is fine. later on when the engine is hot, the oil pressure gauge shows almost all the way to the left(lowest), if i step on the gas, the pressure will clambing up to normal at 2500rpm.

a little more info on the 4Runner, 129k miles, 4wd 5spd, gasket recall was done in april '99(50k miles), oil change 800 miles ago with 10-30 oil and Toyota oil filter at dealer. bearly noticeable rod knock. water temp is fine, idle is flat at 600rpm.

i did a quick forum search before i post, but got mixed results. it can be as easy as replacing the pickup screen to pull the head.

is there any thing i can do before i sent it to the shop?

thanks.

 

[KLF]

I never trust OEM gauges. They are hopelessy innacurate and unreliable. Maybe try to get a cheap mechanical gauge and check it.

 

[beatdown83fj60]

In my experience, higher mileage engines will show lower oil pressure at idle and gain when pressing the gas pedal or driving. I'd do an oil pressure test.

 

[HOGWILD]

I have same motor in my 93 PU 4x4 and was having same similar issue, changed to 10-40 and adjusted idle to 800 Rpm's when engine was hot. it does not go below the lowest setting on gauge so i call it GTG!! Engine only has 234K on it and if it aint broke do not broke it!!

 

[ih8seals]

friend of mine recommended a shop near by, seems to be a honest guy over there. i'm taking it in tomorrow.

thanks all you guys chimed in.