Inaccurate fuel level reading

[Xman]

My fuel gauge reads a little over 1/4 of a tank of fuel when full. The truck has dual tanks and the gauge reads the same way on either tank. Because of that fact, I'm thinking the gauge is the problem. However, I wanted to check with folks in the know if anyone has experienced this as it could possibly be a ground issue at the gauge or sending units. Any ideas on how to get a full reading on the gauge?

Thanks

 

[theblindchicken]

Does it only read between Empty and 1/4 full? If so, i'd take a look at the gauge. If I remember correctly, it will max out if it has an open circuit.

 

[mavtricks71]

I put 2 Spectra Fuel sending units in my 86 K10 truck they are very good....might be sending unit getting old

 

[1987 GMC Jimmy]

I second the gauge. But yeah, Spectra seems to make a solid product. I've got 16,000 miles on sender that I installed, and it's done just fine.

 

[Xman]

Yes, gauge only reads between empty and 1/4. Both sides. Going to get a new gauge. Btw... could it be the printed circuit behind the gauges somehow? I'll surely find out when the gauge is removed I suppose.

 

[Blue Ox]

It could be. We had issues with ours because of oxide buildup where the contact clip met the circuit board. Did you try disconnecting and grounding one of the sender leads to see if the gauge will go to max and min? Could save you pulling the cluster apart.

 

[Xman]

Blue Ox, I will try that. Thanks. I assume that is at the gauge itself?

 

[Blue Ox]

I was thinking at a tank sender or somewhere else you can access the lead like the connector on the selector valve.

 

[Norwester]

My fuel gauge reads a little over 1/4 of a tank of fuel when full. The truck has dual tanks and the gauge reads the same way on either tank. Because of that fact, I'm thinking the gauge is the problem. However, I wanted to check with folks in the know if anyone has experienced this as it could possibly be a ground issue at the gauge or sending units. Any ideas on how to get a full reading on the gauge?

Thanks

I have the large fuel gauge out of my '86 that you can have for the cost of postage. Worked fine when I pulled it. I did so to install the tach/fuel gauge that I got my GM Sports.

 

[Splandman]

I put 2 Spectra Fuel sending units in my 86 K10 truck they are very good....might be sending unit getting old

I was wondering about these sending units. I am about to convert my truck to in tank pumps and was looking at the spectra sending units for the 87 tanks. They aren't too expensive but I was wanting to hear what someone who bought them thought. Guess I will give them a shot.

 

[Xman]

Norwester, Thanks but I have already ordered a new gauge. Thanks again!