First time poster here:

2002 Exploror Sport
4.0 liter
Auto Trans.
32,000 miles
(proper service intervals and oil changes)

Having a strange problem on our Exp Sport's instrument panel Oil Pressure gauge
when "cold weather" starting first thing in the morning. (below 30 degrees)

Upon" first-thing-in-the-morning" starting, the instrument panel Oil Pressure
gauge will not show a reading and the "check gauges" light will display.

Near as I can tell, the colder it is outside, the longer the duration the gauge
will not show any movement when "cold-starting-first-thing-in-the-morning"
(anywhere from 3-26 seconds).

Finally the Oil pressure gauge will snap up to "normal" and all seems well
("check gauges" light will turn off as well) and the Oil pressure gauge will
work properly through all starting cycles through the day.

When inserting Key and turning ignition to "on" position (without starting
engine), the Oil pressure gauge will "jump" just a little, then settle back
resting on it's little peg, as all the instrument panel gauges set up their
readings.This (I would think) would tell one, that there is power going to the
Oil pressure sending unit.

Could it just be the oil pressure sending unit is sticking, clogged, or just
plain can't stand the cold weather, or is the engine really running with no
pressure for a short duration on cold mornings?

Thanks,
-=dave in Arizona