Fuel gauge is really sensitive?

Tiny
ETERNALARIANNE
  • MEMBER
  • 1987 CHEVROLET CELEBRITY
  • 2.8L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 200,300 MILES
I replaced the sending unit and fuel pump in this car since the old one was rusted out from sitting years. The gauge works but is super sensitive. My driveway is mostly level and it will show 1/3 tank of gas. I start going down the road and it will show 1/2 tank or more depending on the road/incline.

Is it normal for these older cars to have super sensitive floats on the sending units? I never know how much gas I truly have because the gauge varies based on where I am.
Monday, February 22nd, 2021 AT 11:48 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
Not really, what kind for pump and float did you get AC Delco? This video will show how to replace the unit correctly:

https://youtu.be/Lhd0vd8pdBU

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.
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Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021 AT 6:39 PM
Tiny
ETERNALARIANNE
  • MEMBER
  • 189 POSTS
It was an AC Delco brand pump and Dorman brand sending unit. After speaking with a few people who’ve owned older cars, they said this appears to be normal. I guess I’m just used to newer ones that don’t change much with incline.
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Wednesday, February 24th, 2021 AT 3:50 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
Use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.
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Friday, February 26th, 2021 AT 11:10 AM

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