Before I rip into the darkside of things....

--------1990 4runner 3.0 V-6 / Auto -----------

*I'd like to say hi to all, and thx ahead of time to some of the answers i get... w/ this said... tough skin suit on. yes i've searched, not to many clear pin pointers though. seems like it's just my gauge reading FUNKY. but want to make sure, so -

How do I go about testing the gauge?

is there a step by step procedure, any pictures / write ups?

is there a easy way to lay under the 4runner and look up to see the wire coming out of the sending unit?

what can be done to verify that my motor is pumping oil?

-----------------------------------------------
ALSO, WHEN I PULL THE OIL DIPSTICK OR REMOVE THE OIL CAP, my idle drops. Is the motor under pressure or do all motors do this? no white milk or or other problems driving, no smoke... no rattles... runs / drives fine. no oil lights on dash / etc... just a low reading guage that if at all, barely moves. reads at low... and barely moves under any type of driving / reving condition.

---------------- hoping it's just the gauge!!!! *(fingers crossed.)