what's up with my oil gauges?

[defcon65]

Just picked up my 85 Carrera on Friday and I noticed the oil level gauge was close to the bottom with the engine running, so I checked the dipstick, which was just above the lower mark. The manual said the difference between the two marks is about 1.85 qts. so I figured dump in a qt. and it would be in the middle of the dipstick, which it now is. However, my oil level gauge is maxed out and it runs between 4 and 5 on the pressure gauge at 80 mph. What gives? Is the dipstick wrong? Are the gauges reading incorrectly? I plan on changing the oil tomorrow and putting in the recommended volume, but why the discrepancy?

I love this car!

Joe

[wcc]

The dipstick doesn't lie. Don't over fill to make the gauge work, go by the dipstick. You'll start to understand how the gauge works for your car over time.

[cmonref]

When you fill the oil tank and then put the dipstick backin, sometimes the dipstick catches UNDER the oil level sender. The guage then is maxed out cuz the sender is being help full up.

[Wil Ferch]

just because the engine was running doesn't mean you checked it the proper way:

- engine at idle ( about 800-900 rpm)
- engine at proper temp ( about 190 degF)
- car on level ground.

ALL THREE things have to be OK before you "check" the oil level.

Wil

[RSBob]

Had some thing similar with my 73 - but the oil level gauge appeared fine, but the dipstick was reading below the fill line. Followed Wil's guidelines and filled until the dip stick read dead center between the fill and full marks. The gauge was then pegged at the top until I drained out about 1/2 quart. Now it sits where it should while maintaining constant speed, but pegs otherwise or wildy bounces between the mid point and being pegged. I understand that dirty electical connections (back of gauge or on the oil sender) can give faulty readings, or a cracked wire. Just cleaned the contacts and will see if it makes a difference next time out.