Here’s the best approach, or at least what works for me all the time:
1. Pull the connecting terminal off the
sending unit (access cover in the center of the trunk, remove one screw to access).
2. With it disconnected and the ignition on, the gauge should go to empty. If it does not, you most likely have a faulty gauge.
3. With it disconnected attach a jumper wire to the terminal and connect it to ground. Turn on the ignition, and observe the gauge, it should quickly go to full. Once it does, turn off the ignition as it is not good to leave it connected to ground. If it does not reach full, you most likely have a faulty gauge.
Now that you have eliminated a gauge problem (usually not the problem), prepare to pull the
sending unit out of the tank but tapping the lock ring tabs in a counterclockwise direction until it releases (about a 1/4 turn or less).
1. Carefully pull the
sending unit out of the tank. CAUTION; This is not the time to enjoy a cigarette or it will be your last one.
2. Separate the float from the arm and inspect it for leaks, it should not have any fluid inside.
3. Reconnect the terminal to the freed
sending unit and turn on the ignition.
4. Hold the arm against each stop and observe the gauge to see if it moves to full and empty respectively. Note that it may take about a full minute for the gauge to respond. If the gauge does not respond to the position of the arm, then you may need to slightly bend the related stop tab to ensure it has sufficient range to reach full or empty.
5. If the gauge responds appropriately, then you will need to adjust the arm (by bending it) so that the float will align with the top of the tank when installed. You can use your eye or a straight edge to confirm the alignment before reinstalling the sender, rubber gasket and lock ring.
Hope this helps.
Neil
CUUL59
