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No oil warning light on Tundra?!

3K views 35 replies 1 participant last post by  qlopp 
G
#1 ·
Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.

My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
slowly fading gauge.

Just a rant.

Nate

--
*********************************************
Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
life are pointed away from earth?
*********************************************
 
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G
#2 ·
"N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
> Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
> the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
>
> My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
> pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
> light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
> gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
> during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> slowly fading gauge.
>
> Just a rant.
>
> Nate
>
> --
> *********************************************
> Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
> life are pointed away from earth?
> *********************************************


If your that concerned why not add a warning light yourself. Very easy job
to carry out, I would only add a light not a buzzer due to the fact that
every time you sit idle with the motor off and ignition on it will drive ya
batty. Use a superbright LED as that WILL get your attention if angled
correctly.
If your unsure about installation repost and Im sure that relevant info will
be posted for you.
 
G
#3 ·
There is a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light, check your owner's
manual - section 1-6, page 175

Looks like a little oil can

From the manual:
This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low. If it flickers or
stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop
the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
assistance.
The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may come
on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes
out when the engine is accelerated slightly.
The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not
designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using
the level dipstick.

"N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
> Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
> the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
>
> My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
> pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
> light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
> gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
> during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> slowly fading gauge.
>
> Just a rant.
>
> Nate
>
> --
> *********************************************
> Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
> life are pointed away from earth?
> *********************************************
 
G
#4 ·
In article <dfWdnbxQZoyIp5XZRVn-vA@comcast.com>,
"Glenn Arsenault" <nhparrot@nospam.comcast.net> wrote:

> There is a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light, check your owner's
> manual - section 1-6, page 175
>
> Looks like a little oil can
>
>
> From the manual:
> This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low. If it flickers or
> stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop
> the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
> assistance.
> The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may come
> on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes
> out when the engine is accelerated slightly.
> The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not
> designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using
> the level dipstick.


I had read the section you mention before and therein lies the
confusion. There's a caveat about the light if the panel is like mine
with Oil Pressure gauge - and it's referenced later in the same chapter
(if memory serves).

When the ignition is first turned on you get the barrage of lights etc.
There is no Oil Light, nor is there a Low Fuel light, but I know in fact
it has an operable Low Fuel light. That's what prompted me to ask the
dealer maint tech. I was thinking. "Gee, maybe they dispensed with the
Oil Pressure light test when the ignition is turned on." and I was told
if there is a gauge, there is no light. If there were a light I would
expect it to test when the ignition is turned on like they do on all
other gauge equipped vehicles I've driven.

Could be the tech was wrong and I do not have immediate access to the
manual, but I'll re-look tomorrow.

Nate

--
*********************************************
Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
life are pointed away from earth?
*********************************************
 
G
#5 ·
In article <44081059$0$1140$afc38c87@news.optusnet.com.au>,
"Scotty" <scoter1@warmmail.com> wrote:

> "N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
> news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
> > Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
> > the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
> >
> > My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
> > pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
> > light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
> > gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
> > during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> > the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> > buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> > this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> > well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> > slowly fading gauge.
> >
> > Just a rant.
> >
> > Nate

>
> If your that concerned why not add a warning light yourself. Very easy job
> to carry out, I would only add a light not a buzzer due to the fact that
> every time you sit idle with the motor off and ignition on it will drive ya
> batty. Use a superbright LED as that WILL get your attention if angled
> correctly.
> If your unsure about installation repost and Im sure that relevant info will
> be posted for you.


I actually am concerned about it to a degree. For the time it's under
warranty, no big deal other than the inconvenience a failure would
cause. Years ago my brother in law had a similar panel set up on an SUV
and the pressure slowly went down. He didn't pick up on it and it
toasted his engine...as you might expect.

I had asked the dealer about that and was told all the engine functions
feed through some kind of master circuit panel/analyzer and it would be
colossal pain in the ass to install one. As my electrical experience is
limited to installing car stereos etc, I'm squeamish about tackling it.
I may have some after market shop do it though.

I may pop in with a request down the road when I'm in a better position
to actually do it.

Thanks.

--
*********************************************
Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
life are pointed away from earth?
*********************************************
 
G
#6 ·
On Fri, 03 Mar 2006 21:13:05 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
wrote:

>In article <44081059$0$1140$afc38c87@news.optusnet.com.au>,
> "Scotty" <scoter1@warmmail.com> wrote:
>
>> "N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
>> news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
>> > Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
>> > the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
>> >
>> > My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
>> > pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
>> > light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
>> > gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
>> > during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
>> > the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
>> > buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
>> > this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
>> > well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
>> > slowly fading gauge.
>> >
>> > Just a rant.
>> >
>> > Nate

>>


My Tundra has the gauges but also an oil light that looks like the
Aladdin's lamp. I see it every time I start the car. You probably
have one, it just doesn't work. Go over your manual, find it and head
back to the dealer with chapter and verse.

Skip
 
G
#7 ·
"N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
news:spudman27-FEB065.21130503032006@news.newsguy.com...
> In article <44081059$0$1140$afc38c87@news.optusnet.com.au>,
> "Scotty" <scoter1@warmmail.com> wrote:
>
>> "N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
>> news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
>> > Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
>> > the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
>> >
>> > My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
>> > pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
>> > light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
>> > gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
>> > during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech
>> > at
>> > the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
>> > buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
>> > this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
>> > well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
>> > slowly fading gauge.
>> >
>> > Just a rant.
>> >
>> > Nate

>>
>> If your that concerned why not add a warning light yourself. Very easy
>> job
>> to carry out, I would only add a light not a buzzer due to the fact that
>> every time you sit idle with the motor off and ignition on it will drive
>> ya
>> batty. Use a superbright LED as that WILL get your attention if angled
>> correctly.
>> If your unsure about installation repost and Im sure that relevant info
>> will
>> be posted for you.

>
> I actually am concerned about it to a degree. For the time it's under
> warranty, no big deal other than the inconvenience a failure would
> cause. Years ago my brother in law had a similar panel set up on an SUV
> and the pressure slowly went down. He didn't pick up on it and it
> toasted his engine...as you might expect.
>
> I had asked the dealer about that and was told all the engine functions
> feed through some kind of master circuit panel/analyzer and it would be
> colossal pain in the ass to install one. As my electrical experience is
> limited to installing car stereos etc, I'm squeamish about tackling it.
> I may have some after market shop do it though.
>
> I may pop in with a request down the road when I'm in a better position
> to actually do it.
>
> Thanks.
>
> --
> *********************************************
> Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
> life are pointed away from earth?
> *********************************************


Where your oil pressure gauge connects to the engine block buy a double
adapter for the hole and run a seperate oil pressure switch. Wire directly
to a nice bright LED somewhere in your vision and use completely independant
of any other system.

Scotty
 
G
#8 ·
On Thu, 02 Mar 2006 21:56:55 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
wrote:
> No light comes on
>during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
>the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
>buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
>this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
>well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
>slowly fading gauge.


My wife blew up a 300ZX with a digital dash in this exact manner.

She didn't know what the numbers meant. <G>
 
G
#9 ·
N Williamson wrote:
> In article <dfWdnbxQZoyIp5XZRVn-vA@comcast.com>,
> "Glenn Arsenault" <nhparrot@nospam.comcast.net> wrote:
>
>
>>There is a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light, check your owner's
>>manual - section 1-6, page 175
>>
>>Looks like a little oil can
>>
>>
>>From the manual:
>>This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low. If it flickers or
>>stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop
>>the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
>>assistance.
>>The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may come
>>on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes
>>out when the engine is accelerated slightly.
>>The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not
>>designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using
>>the level dipstick.

>
>
> I had read the section you mention before and therein lies the
> confusion. There's a caveat about the light if the panel is like mine
> with Oil Pressure gauge - and it's referenced later in the same chapter
> (if memory serves).
>
> When the ignition is first turned on you get the barrage of lights etc.
> There is no Oil Light, nor is there a Low Fuel light, but I know in fact
> it has an operable Low Fuel light. That's what prompted me to ask the
> dealer maint tech. I was thinking. "Gee, maybe they dispensed with the
> Oil Pressure light test when the ignition is turned on." and I was told
> if there is a gauge, there is no light. If there were a light I would
> expect it to test when the ignition is turned on like they do on all
> other gauge equipped vehicles I've driven.
>
> Could be the tech was wrong and I do not have immediate access to the
> manual, but I'll re-look tomorrow.
>
> Nate


Nothing to do with the "missing" oil pressure light, but I remember the
first car my dad bought that had a light and no oil pressure gauge. He
installed a gauge! Being a pilot during WWII, he was very aware of what
was went on under the hood and would scan the gauges for any changes.
Kind of like the way we watch the temperature gauge when pulling a
trailer up a long hill.

Anyway, one day he took the oil light sensor to the airport and checked
it on a pressure tester; he found out the light came on when the oil
pressure got down to 2 psi. He said that it was about 10 psi too low "to
his way of thinking." He said the light only came on when it was too late.

Dad didn't coin the term "Idiot Light," but he always thought it was
appropriate.

BTW, Mom said he installed safety belts in their brand new '49 Buick,
she said she was so embarrassed, her friends asked her if she planed to
fly her car... :>))
--
Tom - Vista, CA
 
G
#10 ·
Bonehenge wrote:
> On Thu, 02 Mar 2006 21:56:55 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
> wrote:
>
>> No light comes on
>>during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
>>the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
>>buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
>>this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
>>well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
>>slowly fading gauge.

>
>
> My wife blew up a 300ZX with a digital dash in this exact manner.
>
> She didn't know what the numbers meant. <G>


Oops, someone forgot to explain the gauges to her. Probably a little
training session would have gone a long way... :>))
--
Tom - Vista, CA
 
G
#11 ·
In article <boai029lva9t0d5po6g0mdsvt3cqbbn5ml@4ax.com>,
Skip <skipfromla@yahoo.com> wrote:

> On Fri, 03 Mar 2006 21:13:05 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
> wrote:
>
> >In article <44081059$0$1140$afc38c87@news.optusnet.com.au>,
> > "Scotty" <scoter1@warmmail.com> wrote:
> >
> >> "N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
> >> news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
> >> > Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
> >> > the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
> >> >
> >> > My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
> >> > pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
> >> > light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
> >> > gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
> >> > during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> >> > the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> >> > buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> >> > this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> >> > well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> >> > slowly fading gauge.
> >> >
> >> > Just a rant.
> >> >
> >> > Nate
> >>

>
> My Tundra has the gauges but also an oil light that looks like the
> Aladdin's lamp. I see it every time I start the car. You probably
> have one, it just doesn't work. Go over your manual, find it and head
> back to the dealer with chapter and verse.
>
> Skip


Is your Tundra a 2005?

Where on the dash is your light? The manual simply groups all the
warning/service lights as '1'. I tried before to use a flashlight to
highlight the light by looking at an angle and saw the others but no
luck with the oil press light.

Thanks.

Nate

--
*********************************************
Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
life are pointed away from earth?
*********************************************
 
G
#12 ·
In article <440a23fa$0$1275$afc38c87@news.optusnet.com.au>,
"Scotty" <scoter1@warmmail.com> wrote:

> "N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
> news:spudman27-FEB065.21130503032006@news.newsguy.com...
> > In article <44081059$0$1140$afc38c87@news.optusnet.com.au>,
> > "Scotty" <scoter1@warmmail.com> wrote:
> >
> >> "N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
> >> news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
> >> > Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
> >> > the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
> >> >
> >> > My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
> >> > pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
> >> > light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
> >> > gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
> >> > during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech
> >> > at
> >> > the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> >> > buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> >> > this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> >> > well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> >> > slowly fading gauge.
> >> >
> >> > Just a rant.
> >> >
> >> > Nate
> >>
> >> If your that concerned why not add a warning light yourself. Very easy
> >> job
> >> to carry out, I would only add a light not a buzzer due to the fact that
> >> every time you sit idle with the motor off and ignition on it will drive
> >> ya
> >> batty. Use a superbright LED as that WILL get your attention if angled
> >> correctly.
> >> If your unsure about installation repost and Im sure that relevant info
> >> will
> >> be posted for you.

> >
> > I actually am concerned about it to a degree. For the time it's under
> > warranty, no big deal other than the inconvenience a failure would
> > cause. Years ago my brother in law had a similar panel set up on an SUV
> > and the pressure slowly went down. He didn't pick up on it and it
> > toasted his engine...as you might expect.
> >
> > I had asked the dealer about that and was told all the engine functions
> > feed through some kind of master circuit panel/analyzer and it would be
> > colossal pain in the ass to install one. As my electrical experience is
> > limited to installing car stereos etc, I'm squeamish about tackling it.
> > I may have some after market shop do it though.
> >
> > I may pop in with a request down the road when I'm in a better position
> > to actually do it.
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > --
> > *********************************************
> > Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
> > life are pointed away from earth?
> > *********************************************

>
> Where your oil pressure gauge connects to the engine block buy a double
> adapter for the hole and run a seperate oil pressure switch. Wire directly
> to a nice bright LED somewhere in your vision and use completely independant
> of any other system.
>
> Scotty


I'll look into that - thank you.
 
G
#13 ·
In article <3KpOf.7874$z82.751@fed1read07>, TOM <tomjc@catz.org> wrote:

> N Williamson wrote:
> > In article <dfWdnbxQZoyIp5XZRVn-vA@comcast.com>,
> > "Glenn Arsenault" <nhparrot@nospam.comcast.net> wrote:
> >
> >
> >>There is a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light, check your owner's
> >>manual - section 1-6, page 175
> >>
> >>Looks like a little oil can
> >>
> >>
> >>From the manual:
> >>This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low. If it flickers or
> >>stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop
> >>the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
> >>assistance.
> >>The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may come
> >>on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes
> >>out when the engine is accelerated slightly.
> >>The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not
> >>designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using
> >>the level dipstick.

> >
> >
> > I had read the section you mention before and therein lies the
> > confusion. There's a caveat about the light if the panel is like mine
> > with Oil Pressure gauge - and it's referenced later in the same chapter
> > (if memory serves).
> >
> > When the ignition is first turned on you get the barrage of lights etc.
> > There is no Oil Light, nor is there a Low Fuel light, but I know in fact
> > it has an operable Low Fuel light. That's what prompted me to ask the
> > dealer maint tech. I was thinking. "Gee, maybe they dispensed with the
> > Oil Pressure light test when the ignition is turned on." and I was told
> > if there is a gauge, there is no light. If there were a light I would
> > expect it to test when the ignition is turned on like they do on all
> > other gauge equipped vehicles I've driven.
> >
> > Could be the tech was wrong and I do not have immediate access to the
> > manual, but I'll re-look tomorrow.
> >
> > Nate

>
> Nothing to do with the "missing" oil pressure light, but I remember the
> first car my dad bought that had a light and no oil pressure gauge. He
> installed a gauge! Being a pilot during WWII, he was very aware of what
> was went on under the hood and would scan the gauges for any changes.
> Kind of like the way we watch the temperature gauge when pulling a
> trailer up a long hill.
>
> Anyway, one day he took the oil light sensor to the airport and checked
> it on a pressure tester; he found out the light came on when the oil
> pressure got down to 2 psi. He said that it was about 10 psi too low "to
> his way of thinking." He said the light only came on when it was too late.
>
> Dad didn't coin the term "Idiot Light," but he always thought it was
> appropriate.
>
> BTW, Mom said he installed safety belts in their brand new '49 Buick,
> she said she was so embarrassed, her friends asked her if she planed to
> fly her car... :>))


LOL!! Well, Mort Taylor did one, so it's not *too* crazy ;)

http://vintagecars.about.com/od/historygreatmoments/a/flycars.htm

Some similarities here. I fly helicopters for a living and have been
for 29 years now. All machines have a light and many also have a gauge.
I can't tell you how many times I've introduced an engine oil
malfunction (in the simulator) initiated by a slow decrease in pressure.
Excepting for 2 pilot crews, 99% of the time it goes unnoticed until the
light comes on. It's just how we are. Imagine yourself in rush hour
traffic (as I was in passing thru LA the other day - OMG!!). How often
do any of us even look at the gauges, speedo, fuel, etc? And that's how
it should be...we need to look outside in these and most cases.

Just my thoughts.

Nate

--
*********************************************
Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
life are pointed away from earth?
*********************************************
 
G
#14 ·
In article <9e9k025tq1ij7kvvu04svahip692aleqke@4ax.com>,
Bonehenge <Keep_it_in_the_newsgroup_please@aol.com> wrote:

> On Thu, 02 Mar 2006 21:56:55 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
> wrote:
> > No light comes on
> >during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> >the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> >buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> >this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> >well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> >slowly fading gauge.

>
> My wife blew up a 300ZX with a digital dash in this exact manner.
>
> She didn't know what the numbers meant. <G>


Ouch!
 
G
#15 ·
In article <c5qOf.7876$z82.412@fed1read07>, TOM <tomjc@catz.org> wrote:

> Bonehenge wrote:
> > On Thu, 02 Mar 2006 21:56:55 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
> > wrote:
> >
> >> No light comes on
> >>during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> >>the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> >>buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> >>this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> >>well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> >>slowly fading gauge.

> >
> >
> > My wife blew up a 300ZX with a digital dash in this exact manner.
> >
> > She didn't know what the numbers meant. <G>

>
> Oops, someone forgot to explain the gauges to her. Probably a little
> training session would have gone a long way... :>))


Perhaps so, but this further emphasizes the ease of understanding lights
more so than a gauge. We're all probably automotive/vehicle enthusiasts
if we're in here or another like group so it's easy for us to
understand. Oil pressure? What is oil? Huh? I don't understand...why
can't it be 5? But you just said if it goes low I should pull over and
now you're saying it can be low but if I give it gas and it goes up it's
OK? How much gas?
Gawd...I can't imagine it.

My solution?

RED = pull over now and shut it off.

AMBER = when time permits and its convenient, pull over and check things
out, look at the manual, have a smoke, yadda, yadda, yadda...

Training session over. Short and sweet.
 
G
#16 ·
>
>Is your Tundra a 2005?
>
>Where on the dash is your light? The manual simply groups all the
>warning/service lights as '1'. I tried before to use a flashlight to
>highlight the light by looking at an angle and saw the others but no
>luck with the oil press light.
>
>Thanks.
>
>Nate


Oops. Disregard. I typed Tundra but was thinking of my other truck.
Sorry for the error.

Skip
 
G
#17 ·
On Sat, 04 Mar 2006 16:16:54 -0800, TOM <tomjc@catz.org> wrote:

>Oops, someone forgot to explain the gauges to her. Probably a little
>training session would have gone a long way... :>))


She wasn't my wife yet. I had just started dating her and got to be
the person who found her a used engine and someone trustworthy to
install it. It wasn't exactly a thankless job... ;^)
 
G
#18 ·
On Sat, 04 Mar 2006 20:30:50 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
wrote:

>
>Perhaps so, but this further emphasizes the ease of understanding lights
>more so than a gauge.


Exactly. My wife's 300 had one of the earliest digital dashes. These
were covered with LED displayed numbers. So many numbers, that the
information gets lost. Did we really care if we had 9.5 gallons of
gas or 9.1? <G> Newer digital dashes either display bar graphs,
change the number color, or totally hide it unless it's not inside the
normal range.

Modern planes, locomotives, and even some road vehicles have gone to
the "silent / dark" concept, where the computer hides normally reading
instruments unless asked for a readout. If the instrument goes out of
range, a master alarm is sounded and the instrument is displayed. This
is an excellent example of the number AND light concept, developed to
perfection.

I'm also all for round gauges with colored ranges AND a light that
comes on when things are critical. I fly aircraft (fixed wing, not
"bugs" like the other poster to this thread. <G>), and needles in the
wrong place stick out in my scan, while digital numbers often don't.
Our better digital gauges have multi-color bar graphs in addition to
the numbers. The numbers are for fine tuning, but you can quickly
scan the color. Critical readings, like critically low oil pressure,
alternator failures, high CHT, etc... also bring a nice, bright light.

For needle gauges, I don't care if it's 15 or 25, just that the needle
is pointing approximately where it should be. That's why race cars
often have the gauges rotated so that the normal range is straight up.
If a needle isn't straight up, you inspect it more closely.

To the helicopter instructor:
Do your simulators have colored ranges on the gauges, or simply
digital numbers or a black steam gauge face, and a bottom limit light?

The aircraft I typically fly have a colored background and sometimes
even a dot at normal, making them extremely easy to notice a change
during a scan. It's surprising to me that a helo would have an oil
pressure gauge that's so easy to miss trends. It seems that if that
99% of the students miss the failure, it's time for a redesigned
gauge. <G>
 
G
#19 ·
N Williamson wrote:
> In article <3KpOf.7874$z82.751@fed1read07>, TOM <tomjc@catz.org> wrote:
>
>
>>N Williamson wrote:
>>
>>>In article <dfWdnbxQZoyIp5XZRVn-vA@comcast.com>,
>>> "Glenn Arsenault" <nhparrot@nospam.comcast.net> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>There is a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light, check your owner's
>>>>manual - section 1-6, page 175
>>>>
>>>>Looks like a little oil can
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>>From the manual:
>>>
>>>>This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low. If it flickers or
>>>>stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop
>>>>the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
>>>>assistance.
>>>>The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may come
>>>>on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes
>>>>out when the engine is accelerated slightly.
>>>>The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not
>>>>designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using
>>>>the level dipstick.
>>>
>>>
>>>I had read the section you mention before and therein lies the
>>>confusion. There's a caveat about the light if the panel is like mine
>>>with Oil Pressure gauge - and it's referenced later in the same chapter
>>>(if memory serves).
>>>
>>>When the ignition is first turned on you get the barrage of lights etc.
>>>There is no Oil Light, nor is there a Low Fuel light, but I know in fact
>>>it has an operable Low Fuel light. That's what prompted me to ask the
>>>dealer maint tech. I was thinking. "Gee, maybe they dispensed with the
>>>Oil Pressure light test when the ignition is turned on." and I was told
>>>if there is a gauge, there is no light. If there were a light I would
>>>expect it to test when the ignition is turned on like they do on all
>>>other gauge equipped vehicles I've driven.
>>>
>>>Could be the tech was wrong and I do not have immediate access to the
>>>manual, but I'll re-look tomorrow.
>>>
>>>Nate

>>
>>Nothing to do with the "missing" oil pressure light, but I remember the
>>first car my dad bought that had a light and no oil pressure gauge. He
>>installed a gauge! Being a pilot during WWII, he was very aware of what
>>was went on under the hood and would scan the gauges for any changes.
>>Kind of like the way we watch the temperature gauge when pulling a
>>trailer up a long hill.
>>
>>Anyway, one day he took the oil light sensor to the airport and checked
>>it on a pressure tester; he found out the light came on when the oil
>>pressure got down to 2 psi. He said that it was about 10 psi too low "to
>>his way of thinking." He said the light only came on when it was too late.
>>
>>Dad didn't coin the term "Idiot Light," but he always thought it was
>>appropriate.
>>
>>BTW, Mom said he installed safety belts in their brand new '49 Buick,
>>she said she was so embarrassed, her friends asked her if she planed to
>>fly her car... :>))

>
>
> LOL!! Well, Mort Taylor did one, so it's not *too* crazy ;)
>
> http://vintagecars.about.com/od/historygreatmoments/a/flycars.htm
>
> Some similarities here. I fly helicopters for a living and have been
> for 29 years now. All machines have a light and many also have a gauge.
> I can't tell you how many times I've introduced an engine oil
> malfunction (in the simulator) initiated by a slow decrease in pressure.
> Excepting for 2 pilot crews, 99% of the time it goes unnoticed until the
> light comes on. It's just how we are. Imagine yourself in rush hour
> traffic (as I was in passing thru LA the other day - OMG!!). How often
> do any of us even look at the gauges, speedo, fuel, etc? And that's how
> it should be...we need to look outside in these and most cases.
>
> Just my thoughts.
>
> Nate


Great link, thank you!
--
Tom - Vista, CA
 
G
#20 ·
N Williamson wrote:
> In article <c5qOf.7876$z82.412@fed1read07>, TOM <tomjc@catz.org> wrote:
>
>
>>Bonehenge wrote:
>>
>>>On Thu, 02 Mar 2006 21:56:55 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
>>>wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>>No light comes on
>>>>during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
>>>>the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
>>>>buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
>>>>this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
>>>>well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
>>>>slowly fading gauge.
>>>
>>>
>>>My wife blew up a 300ZX with a digital dash in this exact manner.
>>>
>>>She didn't know what the numbers meant. <G>

>>
>>Oops, someone forgot to explain the gauges to her. Probably a little
>>training session would have gone a long way... :>))

>
>
> Perhaps so, but this further emphasizes the ease of understanding lights
> more so than a gauge. We're all probably automotive/vehicle enthusiasts
> if we're in here or another like group so it's easy for us to
> understand. Oil pressure? What is oil? Huh? I don't understand...why
> can't it be 5? But you just said if it goes low I should pull over and
> now you're saying it can be low but if I give it gas and it goes up it's
> OK? How much gas?
> Gawd...I can't imagine it.
>
> My solution?
>
> RED = pull over now and shut it off.
>
> AMBER = when time permits and its convenient, pull over and check things
> out, look at the manual, have a smoke, yadda, yadda, yadda...
>
> Training session over. Short and sweet.


My dad's '52 Chevy pickup had a gauge that read 30 at the right end (if
I remember right). It would hang around the center when cruising along
at about 40 MPH is third, but at idle, it was barely above 0 (zero). If
you want to go back farther, some old cars only used splash lubrication
and didn't need an oil pressure gauge or light... :>))
--
Tom - Vista, CA
 
G
#21 ·
Bonehenge wrote:

> On Sat, 04 Mar 2006 16:16:54 -0800, TOM <tomjc@catz.org> wrote:
>
>
>>Oops, someone forgot to explain the gauges to her. Probably a little
>>training session would have gone a long way... :>))

>
>
> She wasn't my wife yet. I had just started dating her and got to be
> the person who found her a used engine and someone trustworthy to
> install it. It wasn't exactly a thankless job... ;^)


You are a lucky man, may the years be good to you and yours...
--
Tom - Vista, CA
 
G
#22 ·
N Williamson wrote:
snip
>> Where your oil pressure gauge connects to the engine block buy a
>> double adapter for the hole and run a seperate oil pressure switch.
>> Wire directly to a nice bright LED somewhere in your vision and use
>> completely independant of any other system.
>>
>> Scotty

>
> I'll look into that - thank you.


You can't wire an LED directly to 12V source as it will burn out. It either
has to have a current limiting resistor in series or come packaged with the
resistor. There are LED's that are made as a package this way so make sure
that's what you get when you shop.
HTH, davidj92
 
G
#23 ·
Why do you need an Oil Warning Light when you have an Oil Warning GUAGE? The
guagej is far superior to the light, and you don't need a crappy light to
back up what the excellent guage is telling you. Sheesh!

I've never had a car with both a light and a guage, and never one with a
buzzer. Watch the guage, and react to what it is doing, and you'll not need
either the light or the buzzer.




"N Williamson" <spudman27@aol.com> wrote in message
news:spudman27-96B8A3.21565502032006@news.newsguy.com...
> Not sure why I just recently noticed this (maybe because I just changed
> the oil for the first time not long ago) but I think it sucks.
>
> My truck (2005 V8 std cab Tundra) has the panel with the tach, oil
> pressure, voltage etc. The manual is vague about a low oil pressure
> light with this particular dash arrangement but suggested if there's a
> gauge that a warning buzzer might be installed too. No light comes on
> during the initial key to on when all the other lights test. The tech at
> the dealer told me there is nothing except the gauge - no light and no
> buzzer. I think it's borderline irresponsible for them to have done
> this. I've had vehicles with gauges, but they always had a light as
> well because a light will catch your attention a lot quicker than a
> slowly fading gauge.
>
> Just a rant.
>
> Nate
>
> --
> *********************************************
> Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
> life are pointed away from earth?
> *********************************************
 
G
#25 ·
On Sun, 5 Mar 2006 10:39:47 -0800, "Jeff Strickland" <crwlr@yahoo.com>
wrote:

>
>I've never had a car with both a light and a guage, and never one with a
>buzzer. Watch the guage, and react to what it is doing, and you'll not need
>either the light or the buzzer.


Both are actually useful. Implementing both is neither difficult or
expensive.
 
G
#26 ·
In article <jfml02la39i8cm991os28ffean93rofe4m@4ax.com>,
Bonehenge <Keep_it_in_the_newsgroup_please@aol.com> wrote:

> On Sat, 04 Mar 2006 20:30:50 -0800, N Williamson <spudman27@aol.com>
> wrote:
>
> >
> >Perhaps so, but this further emphasizes the ease of understanding lights
> >more so than a gauge.

>
> Exactly. My wife's 300 had one of the earliest digital dashes. These
> were covered with LED displayed numbers. So many numbers, that the
> information gets lost. Did we really care if we had 9.5 gallons of
> gas or 9.1? <G> Newer digital dashes either display bar graphs,
> change the number color, or totally hide it unless it's not inside the
> normal range.
>
> Modern planes, locomotives, and even some road vehicles have gone to
> the "silent / dark" concept, where the computer hides normally reading
> instruments unless asked for a readout. If the instrument goes out of
> range, a master alarm is sounded and the instrument is displayed. This
> is an excellent example of the number AND light concept, developed to
> perfection.
>
> I'm also all for round gauges with colored ranges AND a light that
> comes on when things are critical. I fly aircraft (fixed wing, not
> "bugs" like the other poster to this thread. <G>), and needles in the
> wrong place stick out in my scan, while digital numbers often don't.
> Our better digital gauges have multi-color bar graphs in addition to
> the numbers. The numbers are for fine tuning, but you can quickly
> scan the color. Critical readings, like critically low oil pressure,
> alternator failures, high CHT, etc... also bring a nice, bright light.
>
> For needle gauges, I don't care if it's 15 or 25, just that the needle
> is pointing approximately where it should be. That's why race cars
> often have the gauges rotated so that the normal range is straight up.
> If a needle isn't straight up, you inspect it more closely.
>
> To the helicopter instructor:
> Do your simulators have colored ranges on the gauges, or simply
> digital numbers or a black steam gauge face, and a bottom limit light?


All types actually. Some have the chicklet light system (Marconi) - a
vertical array of grenn, amber and red lights, others have a simple
round (steam as you call it <g>) gauge. Of the round ones, some are set
up so if the needles are at 9 o'clock, all is fine, others are fixed.
All have colored range markings.


> The aircraft I typically fly have a colored background and sometimes
> even a dot at normal, making them extremely easy to notice a change
> during a scan. It's surprising to me that a helo would have an oil
> pressure gauge that's so easy to miss trends. It seems that if that
> 99% of the students miss the failure, it's time for a redesigned
> gauge. <G>


My assumption is you are referring to FW. I'm FW rated as well and it's
definitely 2 different worlds. No judgment here, but in the FW world
much time is spent cruising at altitude, unless you're doing aerobatics
etc. Just the opposite is true of helos - a major portion of the time
is spent near the dirt where attention is focused outside lest you run
into something. Especially true of military flying. On major
exercises, us helo guys were restricted to 300' and below and the FW
were 500' and above. Some helos don't even have gauges - just lights.
The other thing to is, at least on the machine I fly a lot now, the oil
pressure will fluctuate with power application and it's perfectly
normal. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that the light is more
accurate on the low pressure side than the gauge.

Sorry about getting so far OT.

Nate

--
*********************************************
Why is it all the sensors seeking intelligent
life are pointed away from earth?
*********************************************
 
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