1997 Oldsmobile 98 Fuel gauge inconsistent

SCORP69

MEMBER
1997 OLDSMOBILE 98
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

Hi.

We bought the care mentioned back in Aug. 08 and the fuel gauge didn't work. It would go to full when the car was cranked up and then fall to empty after a short period of time. I had it repaired. The guy told me he had to replace the whole gauge panel (the place with the speedometer, mileage, etc.) And it worked after that. Today I filled it up for the first time since we got it (as gas is so cheap and we are taking a trip tomorrow) and after I filled it up, it showed that it was full and then a minute later, it fell to empty again like before. Any ideas?

Thanks for taking the time.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi:
It sounds like the float assembly in the tank may be the problem. The fuel level float is part of the fuel pump. The only way to be 100% sure is to check voltage from the float. It should lesson as the level drops. The only way I know to do this is to remove the tank and fuel pump / float assembly.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe