Fuel gauge not working

[Procraft Bob]

Just purchased a used 1994 ProCraft, and the fuel gauge doesn't work. All other gauges in dash fine. Former owner now deceased, so I can't ask questions about when and how it failed. Presuming all wiring is OK, I'm guessing it's the gauge itself. Unfortunately, no manual on boat or knowledge of how fuel gauge and sender unit work so I'm a little lost on how to start the troubleshooting process.
From other forum issue perusing, and basic electronic knowledge, I believe that the float level in the gas tank changes the resistance of the circuit, effectively displaying different levels of fuel in tank registered by gauge. Got the concept, but have no idea where to start checking for voltage, and what to expect. I did read about 3 volts across negative and the "pink" wire on the sender unit, and also on the "pink" wire connected to the back of the fuel gauge (connected to the {S} terminal. Before I buy a new gauge, is there a way to insure it's not the sender unit, or to confirm the gauge is bad/dead? Gauge has terminals G (ground/negative), S? (the pink wire), and I (with two purple wires)?.
Thanks in advance for any help. As you might detect, I'm a rookie.

 

[Don S]

Re: Fuel gauge not working

Look here in the sticky (first thread in this forum) http://forums.iboats.com/electrical...how-tos-other-helpful-information-583533.html

 

[Outsider]

Re: Fuel gauge not working

Check the tank ground, 'presuming' could add time and expense to what is frequently a simple repair ... :facepalm:

Then read Don's sticky reference ...

 

[Procraft Bob]

Re: Fuel gauge not working

Look here in the sticky (first thread in this forum) http://forums.iboats.com/electrical...how-tos-other-helpful-information-583533.html

Don S:

Thanks for the link to the wiring diagram and helpful troubleshooting tips. I have found that it is in fact the gauge itself, and am about to order one to replace mine. I appreciate the help.

I see you're from Western Wa. My old boat (Sprint) is now living with my brother in Seattle, and makes a few trips to Lake Wa. occassionally. I'll be over in Spokane in June to hopefully hook up with some walleye at Porcupine bay, and some big smallies on Long lake too. Again, regards.