Hi,
it should come on blinking when you turn the keyto 'on' ( but don't
start it. )..

then it should go off when you start your engine.

what is yours doing exactly ?

If it's a case of you never see that light flashing -
It's pretty unusual for that to not work.
I think I would start by reading in the Bentley Manual about the DOPS -
dynmaic oil pressure system ..
there are a few tests there I think.

If your low pressure/low rpm oil pressure switch is not making contact (
key on, engine off ) that might produce make no flashing oil light. That
would be pretty rare though.
  I would simulate a non-grounded low rpm OP switch by unplugging it at
the double connector near the thermostat housing..
ground the wire going to the OP switch on the left underside of the
engine ..
go turn the key on and see if you have a flahsing oil light.

poor contact at T14 the main intsrument cluster plug also comes to mind.
The contancts on the foil circuit get torn up there over the years ..
those should not be unplugged and plugged back on 'forever' without some
treatment there to provide a little lubrication/contact cleaner affect.

I hope your oil light is not on when you start the engine ..
if it was, that would indicate no oil pressure, or a fault in the circuit.,

On 1/16/2013 6:15 AM, mehammons wrote:
> I've been reading for a while and appreciate all the info folks are sharing!
>
> The red oil indicator light in my 86 weekender does not come on when I start my van.  All the other lights are working.  Before I dissect it any suggestions?
>
> Flash
> In the Georgia woods...
>