Fuel gauge not working correctly

Hi:

This is a very common problem. The fuel float on the pump is malfunctioning. The only way to correct the problem is to replace the fuel pump. The float is a part of the pump.

If you can live with the problem, it'll save you a couple hundred in the cost of the pump. If you want to replace it, let me know and I tell you the easiest way to relpace it.

Joe

Hi:
Yes it is a problem with Dakotas. The problem exist with the float level sending unit which is part of the fuel pump assembly. To fix it, you will need to replace the fuel pump assembly which, as I said, the fuel level sending unit is a part of. You are looking at a 150 dollar pump plus some labor. Note: If you want to do it yourself, don't try to remove the fuel tank. It is faster and easier to remove the truck bed. Only eight bolts hold it on and you just need a couple people to help remove it. You have full access and no chance of cracking the plastic tank when you replace it. I've done it several times and assure you it's the easiest way. It takes me less than 20 minutes to have the bed off with air tools.

If you have other questions, let me know.

Joe

More than likely the fuel sending unit, (inside the tank), is bad. I would drive until the tank is close to empty before dropping the tank to replace it.

The only thing it can be is the rheostat on the float. They can check it before replacing the pump. All they need to do is check resistance.

It sounds like the rheostat on the float is bad. The bad part is it is part of the fuel pump and in the fuel tank. Thus, you have to replace the fuel pump to fix it. NOTE: If you decide to repace the pump, it is faster and easier to remove the bed rather than the tank. There are 8 bolts that hold it on and then you can have someone help you move it. If you do it, make sure to unscrew the filler tube and remove the wiring ties in the rear.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe

Chances are the fuel pump is going bad or your fuel filter is plugged. Here is a how to for checking fuel pump pressure. If it happens again, check it and let me know what you find.

https://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_check_fuel_pressure.htm

Joe

NOTE: Most parts stores will lend or rent the pressure gauge if you need one.

Chances are the rheostat is bad on the float. It is a common problem. The bad part, it's part of the fuel pump in the fuel tank. To replace it, the pump goes with it.

If you decide to replace it, you have two choices. One, you can remove the fuel tank which usually ends up causing broken straps or bolts that will need drilled out. Or, you can remove the bed. The bed has 8 bolts holding it on. All you need to do is remove them, unclip the wiring to the tail lights, 4 screws that hold the filler tube to the bed (where you fill the gas tank), and remove the bed. Now that I have done enough of them, it takes about 20 minutes.

Once the bed is off, you have full access to the top of the tank and the fuel pump access hole. Make sure to clean all of the dirt from around the pump before removing the cover to access the pump.

If you have questions, let me know.

Joe

Best thing here is to check power when it gets belwo a half, if the gauge is sending power off and on it may doit or if wire is grounding out will do that as well. The sending unit is in the tank. Of course that can be bad as well

Either the rheostat on the the float is bad (even though it's new) or the float is sticking, bent, or stuck on something.