Another test is to jump a wire or a screwdriver across the sending pin to the ground pin on the back of the gauge. If there is no ground pin, use a longer wire and jump the sending pin to the engine block. When you do this, the gauge should go to its lowest reading. If it does, it is working properly.
Full Answer
What is a sending unit on a golf cart?
This gauge and sending unit takes the guesswork out of how much fuel is left in your golf cart and utility vehicle. The sending unit can be adapted to fit nearly any fuel tank, and the gauge can be mounted either in the dash or on any 2" bracket.
How does a fuel gauge work?
A fuel gauge has two sections, which include the indicator and the sending unit. The sending unit uses a potentiometer with a printed ink design, connected to afloat. The float moves according to resistance.
How do I troubleshoot fuel gauge problems?
When troubleshooting fuel gauge anomalies, we recommend starting with the fuel tank’s sender unit as this is most commonly the source of incorrect readings. The senders can work with both 12V and 24V system. The sender draws power through the gauge connection. Check to see if the sending unit is receiving power from the gauge.
How to measure resistance on a fuel gauge?
Measuring resistance on a fuel gauge 1 Select resistance, labeled kΩ on your multitester. 2 If your multimeter is analog, calibrate it. 3 Place the probes on the sending unit as required. 4 Record the reading displayed on the meter in Ohms. 5 If the meter indicates “OL,” there is either a loop or overload.
What to do if fuel gauge does not read?
What should the gauge go to when it is working?
How to check if a wire is faulty?
What to do if your ignition gauge isn't working?
What happens if a gauge is not reaching its maximum reading?
How does a tank sensor work?
Do fuel gauges need to be matched?
See more
How do I test a fuel gauge sending unit?
1:382:59Fuel Gauge & Sending Unit Troubleshooting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe sender wire from the gauge. And check it for ohms using your multimeter on a 0 to 90 ohm sendingMoreThe sender wire from the gauge. And check it for ohms using your multimeter on a 0 to 90 ohm sending unit the reading with your meter should read around 45 ohms.
How do I know if my fuel gauge or sending unit is bad?
Here are some signs that the fuel sending unit is bad and some speculations on how and why the fuel sending unit failed.Fuel gauge reading empty when the tank is full. ... Fuel gauge is stuck on full. ... Fuel gauge fluctuates between empty and full. ... How to fix the fuel gauge or fuel sending unit.
How do I test a fuel sending unit with a multimeter?
0:532:20How To Test A Fuel Level Sending Unit - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUnit. Now turn on the voltmeter to the horseshoe or the ohms reading every sending unit varies. ThisMoreUnit. Now turn on the voltmeter to the horseshoe or the ohms reading every sending unit varies. This particular sending unit is calibrated for 240 to 33 ohms 240 ohms at empty.
What causes the fuel gauge not to work?
Depending on the location of the fault, the fuel sender may not have a source voltage, the gas gauge may have no fuel sender voltage, or the ground for either one may be interrupted. Loose connections and corrosion can also cause problems, particularly at the Fuel Pump Module, which is usually exposed to the elements.
How do you diagnose a bad fuel level sensor?
Symptoms of Bad Fuel Level SensorFuel Gauge Behaves Erratically. The first and most common symptom when you have faulty sensor is that fuel gauge behaves erratically and not related to the actual fuel level. ... Fuel Gauge Stuck on Empty. ... Fuel Gauge Stuck on Full. ... Decreased or Increased Gas Mileage.
What happens when a fuel sending unit goes bad?
A faulty fuel gauge sender may cause the gauge to suddenly change positions, or give an inaccurate reading. The gauge may appear to be at three quarters, and then only a few minutes later will change to half full, or vice versa the gauge may appear to be full, only to have the gauge climb higher a short while later.
How many ohms should a fuel gauge read?
Autometer -240-33 Ohms is the most common however other ohm ranges are made. Classic Instruments - 240-33 Ohms (excluding vehicle specific gauge kits which use factory ohm range)
How do you test a fuel rail pressure sensor with a multimeter?
0:402:21Diesel Pressure Sensor Testing - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn the ignition switch. On then using a multimeter probe on the sensor reference voltage usuallyMoreTurn the ignition switch. On then using a multimeter probe on the sensor reference voltage usually the red wire and verify 5 volts if not then the ECM more wiring is that fault.
How do you fix a fuel sender unit?
0:072:43How to Calibrate and Fix a Fuel Sending Unit - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGoes up and down the ohm readings are going to change you can adjust this by simply bending theseMoreGoes up and down the ohm readings are going to change you can adjust this by simply bending these tabs in or out to get your desire to ohm rating.
How do you check gas if your fuel gauge is not working?
1:533:07My Fuel Gauge Isn't Working!? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd number three basic hand tools so carry out the following test to identify the problem source ofMoreAnd number three basic hand tools so carry out the following test to identify the problem source of your fuel gauge not reading correctly you could do an instrument cluster self.
How does a fuel gauge sending unit work?
0:061:00How does a Fuel Gauge Work - Dummies Video Guide - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe signal comes from your car's battery via a small coil. The lower the float drops the moreMoreThe signal comes from your car's battery via a small coil. The lower the float drops the more current the resistor sent to the fuel gauge and the closer your gauge gets to empty.
What to do if fuel gauge does not read?
Problems often involve incorrect grounding and inadequate power. If the gauge does not read at all, check the power with a multimeter at the gauge terminal. Test between the positive terminal on the fuel gauge and a good ground; the reading should be 12 volts. If it isn’t, check the ignition circuit.
What should the gauge go to when it is working?
When you do this, the gauge should go to its lowest reading. If it does, it is working properly. If the gauge is good, the next step is to check the other system components, as either the wire running to the sender or the sender itself must be faulty.
How to check if a wire is faulty?
To check the wire, disconnect it from both the sender and the “S” pin on back of the gauge. Set your multimeter to the Ohms scale and check the resistance within the wire . If there is no resistance (as close to zero Ohms as possible), the circuit is good and the sender is faulty.
What to do if your ignition gauge isn't working?
If it isn’t, check the ignition circuit. If that reads 12 volts, turn off the ignition. Then use the Ohm scale on your multimeter to check continuity between the ground terminal on the gauge and ground; the reading should be at or near zero Ohms. If not, recheck the ground circuit.
What happens if a gauge is not reaching its maximum reading?
If this is the case then the gauge is good and you can proceed to the next step. If the gauge does not reach its maximum reading, it is faulty and must be replaced.
How does a tank sensor work?
How Tank Sensors Work. Most sensors have a mechanical floating arm and a rheostat. When the arm is all the way down, in the “empty” position, the resistance in the circuit to the gauge is near zero. As the arm rises, resistance in the circuit also rises to around 200 Ohms.
Do fuel gauges need to be matched?
In most cases, the sender and the fuel gauge need to be matched to the resistance in the sender’s rheostat, so to be completely sure you are getting accurate readings, replace both the sender and the gauge. Several companies provide pre-packaged “ready-to-go” installation kits.
How to ground a fuel gauge?
Ground the gauge by soldering or clipping one end of the jumper wire onto the gauge's grounding terminal and the other end onto a clean contact point on the vehicle's frame, then turn the vehicle on. If the gauge starts working, replace the defective fuel gauge grounding wire.
Why is my fuel gauge reading false?
When the gauge, the sender unit, or the required wiring between them do not function correctly , the fuel gauge may read falsely or simply not function at all. There are some simple tests you can do to see if your fuel gauge is working.
How to ground a fuel sender unit?
The sender unit can be grounded by attaching the jumper wire to the exterior of the fuel tank or the vehicle's frame. Replace the sender unit's grounding wire if the gauge begins to function. Disconnect the wire that connects the fuel gauge to the sender unit, then turn the vehicle on.
Where is the fuse panel located?
The fuse panel may be located under the hood or under the dashboard. Each fuse should be labeled with an amperage rating and a number or series of letters indicating which circuit the fuse protects. Reference your service manual to determine where your fuse panel is located and which fuse controls the fuel gauge system.
Where is the sender unit located?
The sender unit is located on the fuel tank and, in many vehicles, it is accessible under the back seat or trunk. This may require removing and lifting out the back seat or trunk carpet. Consult your service manual if you are unsure as to how to access the back of the gauge or the sender unit.
How to check if fuel gauge is receiving 12 volts?
Using your multimeter , check to see if the fuel gauge is receiving 12 volts of power. With the engine ignition on, probe using a multimeter between the positive terminal and the ground. Probing should be done at the back of the measure where there is an ‘I’ or a plus sign.
What does disconnection do to a fuel gauge?
In a functional fuel gauge, disconnection prompts the gauge recording the highest reading. If your reading is at its highest, your fuel gauge is functioning well. If reading is lower than the highest recorded reading, your fuel gauge should be changed as it is faulty.
What causes a fuel gain to be faulty?
A faulty fuel gain is as a result of corrosion of the potentiometer, poorly connected or disconnected wires and a non-functional sending unit. However, if an individual suspects a malfunction in their fuel gauge, they can quickly test its functionality using a multimeter.
What happens if the gauge reads its highest?
If the pointer moves to the E sign, the sender is faulty, and there is poor grounding. If the gauge reads its highest, ground wire to the red tag. If the gauge still reads E, the cable from the sending unit to the dash is broken.
Can a fuel gauge be faulty?
It is easy to notice a faulty fuel gauge. However, it can be quite frustrating to drive a vehicle with non- functional gauge. It is equally stressful to try and discover the problem with your gauge. With the simple procedures explained above and if you own a multimeter, you can test your indicator, wires, and sending unit effectively. The process will also help you use the multimeter with ease and get accurate results.
Can fuel gauge wires be broken?
It is possible that wires connecting the fuel gauge to the dash could be broken. In this case, the fuel gauge is repaired, or the wires replaced. Connect the multimeter to the sending unit when the sender disconnects from the tank. Make sure that one end of the lead is at the housing while the other is at the stud.
What to do if fuel gauge does not read?
Problems often involve incorrect grounding and inadequate power. If the gauge does not read at all, check the power with a multimeter at the gauge terminal. Test between the positive terminal on the fuel gauge and a good ground; the reading should be 12 volts. If it isn’t, check the ignition circuit.
What should the gauge go to when it is working?
When you do this, the gauge should go to its lowest reading. If it does, it is working properly. If the gauge is good, the next step is to check the other system components, as either the wire running to the sender or the sender itself must be faulty.
How to check if a wire is faulty?
To check the wire, disconnect it from both the sender and the “S” pin on back of the gauge. Set your multimeter to the Ohms scale and check the resistance within the wire . If there is no resistance (as close to zero Ohms as possible), the circuit is good and the sender is faulty.
What to do if your ignition gauge isn't working?
If it isn’t, check the ignition circuit. If that reads 12 volts, turn off the ignition. Then use the Ohm scale on your multimeter to check continuity between the ground terminal on the gauge and ground; the reading should be at or near zero Ohms. If not, recheck the ground circuit.
What happens if a gauge is not reaching its maximum reading?
If this is the case then the gauge is good and you can proceed to the next step. If the gauge does not reach its maximum reading, it is faulty and must be replaced.
How does a tank sensor work?
How Tank Sensors Work. Most sensors have a mechanical floating arm and a rheostat. When the arm is all the way down, in the “empty” position, the resistance in the circuit to the gauge is near zero. As the arm rises, resistance in the circuit also rises to around 200 Ohms.
Do fuel gauges need to be matched?
In most cases, the sender and the fuel gauge need to be matched to the resistance in the sender’s rheostat, so to be completely sure you are getting accurate readings, replace both the sender and the gauge. Several companies provide pre-packaged “ready-to-go” installation kits.
