I changed the starter in my 87 420 the other day and now the low oil idiot light is always on. The oil level is at the proper mark.

How does the oil level sensor in these engines work. What is the basic detection mechanism?? I know the sensor is inside the crankcase so its a bear to get to.

Any ideas on what to look for?

__________________
I got too many cars!! Insurance eats me alive. Dave

78 Corvette Stingray - 3k
82 242 Turbo Volvo - Manual - 270k
86 300e 5 speed manual - 210k
87 420sel - 240k
89 560sl - 78k
91 420sel - 205k
91 560sel - 85k
94 GMC Suburban - 90k
97 Harley Davidson Heritage Softail - 25k
00 GMC Silverado 1 ton 30k

Having a 1987 300D as the reference, the low oil light comes on when the lead to the sensor is grounded. The sensor is fit with o-ring into the upper side of the oil pan and has a connector pin for a signal wire. This wire goes into the wiring harness at some point.

Most likely reason for a sudden appearance of the dash light, after working on the car, is a pinched and grounded wire to this sensor in the engine compartment.

Hope this helps,
Ken300D

Thanks Ken. I can imagine what I did but at least I know where to look.

__________________
I got too many cars!! Insurance eats me alive. Dave

78 Corvette Stingray - 3k
82 242 Turbo Volvo - Manual - 270k
86 300e 5 speed manual - 210k
87 420sel - 240k
89 560sl - 78k
91 420sel - 205k
91 560sel - 85k
94 GMC Suburban - 90k
97 Harley Davidson Heritage Softail - 25k
00 GMC Silverado 1 ton 30k