Sable V6-232 3.8L (1988)
Fuel Gauge: Component Tests and General Diagnostics
Primary Checks
1.
Visually inspect fuel tank for damage. The fuel indicating system can be seriously affected if the tank is collapsed or distorted from its normal
shape.
2.
In some instances a fuel tank may not fill completely. This will result in the gauge not reaching the FULL mark. Check by shaking vehicle after the
first fuel pump nozzle cutoff and then slowly meter fuel into tank with shut-off nozzle withdrawn to just inside the leaded fuel restrictor door. If the
fuel gauge reaches full after this procedure, the fuel indication system is operating satisfactorily.
Calibration Test
NOTE: This calibration test can be performed with a Rotunda instrument gauge system tester (021-00055) or equivalent, a 22 ohm and 145 ohm
resistor or another fuel sender of known good quality.
WITH ROTUNDA TESTER or EQUIVALENT
Follow tester instructions to perform calibration test.
WITH RESISTORS
Disconnect the wiring connector at the sender unit, connect a 145 ohm resistor between the gauge lead and a good ground, and turn the ignition switch
ON. The gauge pointer should contact the full mark. Replace the 145 ohm resistor with a 22 ohm resistor, the gauge pointer should contact the empty
mark.
WITH FUEL SENDER
1.
Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
2.
Disconnect the wiring connector from the sender and connect it to the test sender.
3.
Move the float rod away the fuel filter against the FULL stop position. Wait approximately 30 seconds and turn the ignition to the ON position.
The gauge should read on or above the full mark.
4.
Move the float rod toward the fuel filter against the empty stop position. Turn the ignition to the OFF position. Wait approximately 30 seconds
and turn the ignition to the ON position. The gauge should read on or below the empty mark.
5.
If the gauge preforms as indicated.
6.
If the gauge is out of calibration at EMPTY mark, or both the EMPTY and FULL mark, replace the gauge.
