Question on Wonky Oil Level Gauge- with video

[Missed Approach]

Hi Everyone- Background as always... 1986 3.2L Coupe, now at 156K. Recent replacement of the oil level sender gauge 2 months ago at 154K. The sender was OEM, and all wiring at the sender is in good shape. Before I grab the voltmeter, could this be a gauge, rather than a sender issue? Please note in the video that the needle pegs when the throttle is lifted. Input is appreciated, apologies for the initial glare.



Cooking on a Porsche 911- The herbal butter made the difference.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvXBR50rH9E

[pampadori]

Not exactly related to your question, but you shouldn't be above the low red line while the engine is above idle speed. Only when the oil is above 180-200°F and the engine at idle speed should you register midway up the gauge.

This is described in the owners manual pretty well.

So you definitely have the car overfilled right now.

[Missed Approach]

Thanks Pampadori- I should have added to the initial post- The oil dipstick is showing slightly above the middle, not in the center, while at operating temp, level ground, and engine running.

[EC900]

Replaced the dash gauge or the oil tank level sensor?
Does it malfunction the same if the car is in neutral?
If this a new problem that started then I’d look at whichever you replaced.
My guess if electrical would be ground issue (pegging up) or mechanical could be tank float. Both might be relatable due to motion of the vehicle driving, engine torque twist.
Easy to bend the tank float, bend in the dip stick also could be interfering as was the case with mine.

[Missed Approach]

Hi EC900- the oil level tank sensor #91164154102 was replaced, and it does occur in neutral. Agreed with looking at the sensor first. Gerry (86 911Targa) did also post a good writeup on checking the continuity several years ago (i just found it)

[Missed Approach]

Okay- I feel a bit chagrined... I went back and had a more in-depth look at the wiring. I pulled down the protective cap, this is what I discovered... Thanks to all who responded. (the photo was taken after hosing down & cleaning with terminal cleaner.)

I'll get this cleaned up and better protected with shrink-tubing.

Ugh.

[Missed Approach]

Hi All- Wanted to follow up with the actual cause of the wonky gauge... it turned out to be the aftermarket oil level sender. Cleaning up and protecting the wiring did not solve the issue. I remember that I chose the cheaper alternative ($90) when I purchased a replacement unit back in 2022. I had to change her oil today, so it gave me the chance to replace the unit with an actual Made in Germany sender from our host (Part #911 641 541 02). Problem solved! I compared the two units and the Porsche piece is night and day to the aftermarket piece. See the images below...

Here's the Porsche part- it exudes quality...









I did clean and protect the wiring earlier...




The aftermarket (potentiometer?) was very loose compared to the Porsche part...



The aftermarket piece seems to pale in comparison and did not even have a mfg. stamp!


After installation (with oil temp at the first hash) I was also at the halfway mark on the dipstick and the gauge was rock solid!



Cooking on a Porsche 911- The herbal butter made the difference.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvXBR50rH9E