<mndang@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1155494200.611350.233720@h48g2000cwc.googlegr oups.com...
> Hi All,
>
> Could you help identify this problem? I have an '97 Honda Prelude SH
> with 167K miles. The oil light comes on in the afternoon when I drive
> for a while with the A/C on. I drive for 30 min. on the freeway with
> the A/C on then when I slow down to under 10mph or stop the oil light
> begins to flicker and then blinks continuously. The rpm goes really
> low but the engine doesn't shut off. It's hot in Houston. I turn off
> the A/C and the oil light still flickers. I don't have this issue in
> the mornings or at night. Does the heat have to deal with it?
>
> I check my oil level and use Catrol Syntec Blend 10w30 and the levels
> are normal. Is it the alternator? I don't think so, b/c my electrical
> system seems normal. WHat do I need to change or replace?

Try a thicker oil... 10w30 dino, or even 10w40. It may help keep the
pressure up.

What does your temp gauge do? Could be that your engine is getting warmer
than usual, thinning the oil even more than normal.

Finally, with the car in neutral, turn the A/C on... Do the revs drop? If
so, you may have a bad switch somewhere. Most cars will boost the RPM to
compesate for the extra load of the A/C. A more accurate way to test is to
disconnect the A/C pressure switch, then start the car and turn on the
A/C... RPM should definately increase as the engine compensates for the
compressor - and since the switch is unplugged, the compressor doesn't
actually kick in.