The fuel gauge falls to empty no matter how full the tank is

CAPTNTONY

MEMBER
2002 CHEVROLET TRUCK

The fuel gauge falls to empty no matter how full the tank is. It then goes back to 'normal' when I accelerate. Last weekend, it started falling to empty while I was driving as well. I think it's time to stop ignoring it and figure out what it is. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. If it needs to be replaced or if I have to run some 'cleaner' through the system, whatever. I run BP 89 octane gas almost exclusively through it. I also have been putting on about 700 miles a week for the past three months, and will probably continue at about 300 miles a week through the winter in case that makes any difference.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,960 POSTS

It sounds like the fuel level sensor in the tank is bad. The only fix is to drop the tank and replace the sender unit. (Note: fuel pump might be part of the unit) Check out the diagrams (Below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.

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Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 AT 11:28 AM

CAPTNTONY

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4 POSTS

Is there any test that can be performed on the unit while it is in place? How much should something like that procedure run at a certified mechanic? Again, thanks for your help. I appreciate it.

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Sunday, September 23rd, 2007 AT 9:09 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,960 POSTS

To test the gauge circuit you must ground the feed wire to the gauge, it should go all the way full, then open the circuit, it should go all the way down to empty. If so your sender is bad and needs to be replaced. A mechanic will charge you about 180.00 to remove the tank, by the part on the internet and it will cost you about 290.00 if you go to the dealer it will cost about 590.00 please let me know how it goes.

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Monday, September 24th, 2007 AT 5:30 PM