Fuel gauge not reading properly

1998 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC
116,000 MILES • 4.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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RYDER98
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I recently had a new fuel pump installed in my vehicle at a local Ford dealership here in Chesapeake, VA. When I picked up my explorer from the dealer and went to get gas the fuel gauge read about 3/8 tank full. I always fill my tank and then when I get back in my vehicle the fuel gauge needle is just above full. (I note that the fuel gauge has always been accurate and that I have kept detailed records on my vehicle for years and keep every gas receipt for review and evaluation). This time when I got back in my explorer the fuel gauge was still on 3/8 full and slowly over the next 15-20 minutes finally got back to above the full mark on the fuel gauge. The fuel gauge is now consistently in error by about 1/4 tank. For example, my explorer has a 17.3-gallon tank capacity (per Ford specs) and now when the fuel gauge reads 3/4 full it takes 8 to 9 gallons to fill it back up (instead of what should be about 4 to 5 gallons).
-What should I do or say to the dealer?
-What are the possibilities of what could have happened?
Thank you,
Michael
May 22, 2022 at 8:00 PM
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SQM
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Hello,

It sounds like the new fuel pump has a faulty fuel level sending unit.
The fuel level sending unit consists of a float, which attaches to a resistor panel. As the float moves up/down it contacts in different part of the resistor and that sends the signal to the fuel gauge.
So, this component is likely defective and does not provide the proper signal to the gauge.

Since the work was done recently, you should have warranty on that component.
Just let them know what you are experiencing and ask them to replace the fuel pump under warranty.

Let me know of any questions.

Thank you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-electric-fuel-pump
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May 22, 2022 at 8:24 PM
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RYDER98
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Sean,

Thanks for the quick reply. I've been searching the internet and educating myself on this matter but could not determine for my 1998 Explorer whether the fuel gauge sending unit was part of the fuel pump itself or separate. I'll head over to the dealer tomorrow.
Thanks,
Mike P
May 22, 2022 at 8:33 PM
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SQM
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You are welcome. Let me know the outcome.
May 23, 2022 at 7:12 AM
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RYDER98
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They have me scheduled for June 22 to check it out.
May 23, 2022 at 6:34 PM
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SQM
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Hope it works out.
May 23, 2022 at 8:39 PM