Where is the oil sending unit located?

1997 FORD EXPLORER
230,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • AUTOMATIC
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BARLETTCOX
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have the vehicle listed above XLT model. The oil gauge is fluctuating. I suspect the oil sending unit is faulty. I want to replace it but I can't find it on my make and model. I need a picture of its location and I need to know the best way to get to it.
Aug 22, 2025 at 11:26 AM
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MECHTRIX
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 393 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Its on the drivers side on the block near the oil filter you can access it by removing the left front wheel and the splash sheild iin the wheel well then youl see it it has one wire .. good luck
Aug 22, 2025 at 12:49 PM
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STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,837 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The oil pressure can fluctuate when the oil pump pick up is clogged, here is the location of the oil pressure sender which is down by the oil filter as requested. Check out the images (below). Let us know if you need anything else.
Aug 24, 2025 at 11:31 AM
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