So I tried to install a new Oil Pressure Sending Unit today, but had some trouble. The car is a 1992 Camaro RS LO3, so I have the combined switch and gauge above the oil filter.

It definitely wasn't easy to get out, and there wasn't enough room to use the socket made especially for it. I was eventually able to get the original one out using some vice grips.

So I figured that was the hard part and installing the new one would be easy, but for the life of me I can't get it in. I'm not crazy or retarded, but I seriously can't scew the new sending unit in. I even tried putting the old unit back in, but had the same problem. I have it almost perfectly straight, but just can't catch that first thread. Every once and awhile it feels like it catches just a little bit, but then slips. Anyone have any suggestions, because this is turning out to be quite fustrating.

Thanks.

 

Try carefully chasing the threads with a pipe tap, but be absolutely certain that no metal bits get into the oil passage.

 

I don't have a pipe tap, or the know how to do that. I tried to carefully clean out the first thread, but that didn't help. If it comes down to it I will end up towing it to a garage, but I would really rather not.


Edit: Oh and there is almost no room to work with, which was why it was so tough getting it out in the first place.

 

You can get one at your favorite hardware store.

 

I had the same problem when I replaced mine. I tried for at least an hour or two to get it back in, but it felt like it would cross thread after the first turn. I felt really stupid when I figured out I was trying to screw it into the wrong hole. There's a threaded opening in the block (the same size as the hole for the sending unit) right above where the sending unit goes. Not being able to see what I was doing, I was trying to screw it in there instead of the hole that it goes in.

 

Man I hope thats it. I tried for about as long as you did, at least 2 hours, and had someone else try as well. I got my head as far up in there as possible to try and look in that hole, and didn't see another one, but I seriously hope thats it.

I will try again tommorrow, cause the car isn't parked at my house, and let you guys know. I really appreciate the help though, no matter what the outcome is.

 

There are two holes. One for the oil passage, and one for the mechanical clutch linkage.