gas gauge

[jack450]

Hi fellow boaters. My problem is my gas gauge started jumping, It started on a rough day on lake, it went to almost empty, so we filled up, but it took only 8 gallons, now it just jumps around empty, and sometimes just stays below the E mark. I put a new fuse in and pulled dash panel, everything seemed ok I have juice to switch. Also when it first started acting up, If I blew the horn it would work fine, but would act up if you turned switch off. Could it be the ground? The gauge is 2 years old. Anybody know maybe what to check next?

 

[triumphrick]

Re: gas gauge

You say the gauge is new..waht about the sending unit? They all should have an access port to get to them on the top of the tank. You will also find a bonding or ground wire there...I have had two fuel gauge issues over the years..and both were related to the sending unit as well as that ground wire.
The sending units are pretty much universal..and are ordered usually by length. It's also good to have a fresh gasket. Good luck!

 

[j_martin]

Re: gas gauge

Before you start taking things apart, odds are good the connections on the sending unit is a crimped on ring terminal. Odds are also good that the crimps have failed with time.

 

[bridweezul]

Re: gas gauge

I agree with J, verify all connections are corrosion free and in good working order. Replace as needed.

 

[sw33ttooth]

Re: gas gauge

take dash out and double check that ground wire sender wire and 12 v+ are TIGHT i had similar problem with mine after i put gauges in the negative was a little loose and once i hit a 6 inch wave or less it would flicker tightend it and it works as good as a fuel gauge does.