Loss of oil pressure while driving
 

My 2005 6.0 power stroke oil pressure gauge dumps and then the idiot light comes on and shows low oil pressure. Checked the oil level, that's good. Talked to a mechanic and he wants to charge me a TON of money. I am mechanically inclined but never worked on a diesel. Is this a pump? HPOP? pressure switch? Help!!!!!!!!!!:argh:

What type of oil filter and oil filter cap are you using? My guess is some sort of filter that uses it's own style cap? If so, switch back to a motorcraft filter and cap immediately. HPOP typically works or it doesn't, it wouldn't cut in/out. If your HPOP wasn't working the truck wouldn't start. You could have a high pressure oil leak though. As the oil heats up, it thins out and makes it harder to maintain pressure. Do you have access to a scanner? Sounds like you've got a mechanic who's ready to take your money without diagnosing anything.

I am using Motorcraft, my thoughts were the same on the mechanic. Just changed my oil and filter 2 weeks ago. Crazy thing is the truck doesn't run funny or anything out of the normal. I'll plug it in and see what codes are popping up. Thanks a bunch!

If you have an actual scanner, try measuring actual ICP vs. desired ICP and check IPR duty cycle if you can and let us know.

I ran a scanner through the truck and it did not come up with any codes. Maybe just a sending unit issue for the gauge?

If you don't have any performance issues, it very well could be the oil pressure switch (unfortunately it isn't an actual pressure gauge).

As Mdub707 said a scan tool (like the scangaugeII) will enable you to pull engine operational information - like the ICP (HPOP discharge pressure) and the IPR regulator duty cycle (the IPR is the control valve for the high pressure oil pressure regulation).

You won't find oil pressure w/ these tools for the reason I mentioned earlier.

Yeah you need a physical scanner, not just a code reader. Going to be nearly impossible to diagnose this one without the scanner. Where are you located?

I am in Vancouver Wa. and I have been reading as much as I can about scanners but everyone claims to be the best in these devices. Any tips on a scanner?

If you already have a labtop get Autoenginuity with the enhanced Ford bundle, should be able to get it for about $350, IF you already have a labtop to use it on.