fuel gauge

[PowerAddict]

any quick things to look for if a fuel gauge isn't working? Is the float the same in a boat tank as it is in an automotive tank?

 

[Robj]

Re: fuel gauge

Not sure if the automotive ones are the same. I bought a new sending unit for less than $30. Not worth messing with for such a cheap item. The sending unit is a potentiometer, remove it from the tank and put an Ohm meter on it and then move the lever. Do not remember what range, I believe it is less than 100 Ohms. The resistance should change as the lever changes, if it does, then the sending unit is OK, and it is your gauge, or the wiring in between. Run a wire directly from the gauge to the sending unit and see if that makes any difference. Then ground the gauge where the signal wire is to see if that makes any difference, if it does not then you know it is your gauge.

Have a great day,

Rob.

 

[Don S]

Re: fuel gauge

Moving to Electrics, Electronics and Trolling Motors (not engine)

 

[Silvertip]

Re: fuel gauge

As the float moves through its travel the resistance varies between 30 and 240 ohms.

 

[PowerAddict]

Re: fuel gauge

okay, so it is the same as on a car. Mines reading totally empty with a full tank. I doubt that would be the case if it were a float. I guess I need to check the guage.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: fuel gauge

The float could have sunk, become disconnected from the arm, or the arm broken off.

 

[cjames]

Re: fuel gauge

pop the sender out and see whats wrong with it, move the float up and down manually and check resistance, if its working right, check the wiring at the back of the guage for the same (close) resistance readings. if its just plain broke, youre ahead of the game by allready having the old one removed. In my experience, you can fix them 90% of the time.