easy question, fuel gauge

[FW0804]

I have a 1987 Four Winns with a Mercruiser 165HP Engine. The guy I bought the boat from replaced the fuel tank. I put a bunch of gas in the boat but the gauge still says its on E even with the key in the ON position. Does the boat have to be started for it to read how much fuel is in the tank? I'm afraid that since he replaced the gas tank he didn't install the float properly or something.

 

[gcboat]

Re: easy question, fuel gauge

I would start with a good check of your electrical connections. They need to be clean and snug. Sometimes there is always the chance that the gauge itself is a goner - or the sending unit. I'd be checking those connections and wiring first though.

 

[joe009]

Re: easy question, fuel gauge

if you disco the wire on top of the fuel gauge,and ground it the fuel gauge should read full

 

[Silvertip]

Re: easy question, fuel gauge

The engine does not have to be running to read fuel level but the key does have to be in the run position. Here is a diagram for the fuel gauge circuit.

 

[rbh]

Re: easy question, fuel gauge

the gauge and the sender may not be from the same manufacture, and will not work together do to differences in the ohms resistance that is required.
rob

 

[Silvertip]

Re: easy question, fuel gauge

If everything is original, a mismatch is not the issue. Sender resistance is 33-240 ohms as you raise and lower the float arm. You must disconnect the sender wire either at the gauge or the sender to measure resistance.

 

[jdlough]

Re: easy question, fuel gauge

Silvertip,

Way thanks for your graphic.

I write computer system manuals for a living, and my company could use guys who come up with complete, but simple diagrams like that.

Helped me a bunch.

Jim