I have been having this problem as of lately with my 89 300e. One day, the oil pressure gauge dropped from 3 bar to 1. at idle almost 0.

During normal driving, it will go to about 1.5-2 bar.

First thing I thought to do is replace the oil pressure sending unit.

No change.

It would be silly to actually start throwing more parts at the car, so I went to harbor freight, purchased a mechanical oil pressure gauge.

My reading on the mechanical gauge is consistent with my gauge on the dash.

So my conclusion would be that the engine truly has low oil pressure.

Heres the thing: If I take off my oil cap, I can physically SEE the oil squirting on to my camshaft via the oiler... at idle.

If I rev to 2k rpm, there is plenty of oil to be had at the top of the motor.

No strange noises, clicking, or tapping. AT ALL. Ive been driving the car like this for a couple of weeks, and the car still runs great.

Whats the next move? As you m103 owners know, the oil pan is a bit of a job to remove. I just wanted to hear some advice/ maybes before I open up a can of worms.

__________________
Eugene

10 E63 AMG
93 300te 4matic
07 BMW X3
14 Ford F-150 Fx2