Gas gauge

[Wahoo]

I've only owned my car for almost two weeks, when I bought it, the gas gauge showed half a tank, but since i plan to do the Hotwire kit I wasn't sure if I need to drop the tank so I'm trying to run it low on gas. The only thing is the needle moves past the full mark when I accelerate normally, the needle almost disappears. I feel like since it moves so much the tank might be almost empty even though it reads almost half a tank.

Is there a way to fix the float or something? It moves so much when driving and turning

 

[John Larkin]

Here's the good news: you can drain the tank without driving. The end of the fuel rail where the regulator is has a schraeder valve in it. Remove this with a valve stem core removal tool, clamp a hose that fits over the end, place the other end in a gas can and put 12v to the black connector behind the alternator. Fuel will pump out of the tank via the intank pump. Use clear tubing and remove the 12v wire when you see bubbles - don't let the pump run while dry.

As for the gauge, yes the sending unit must be removed. It has a wiper that moves along a serrated surface to give the gauge reading. Most times this contact area needs cleaning/scuffing to restore operation. However you may want to just get a new hanger from Racetronix that is stainless and has upgraded wiring for about $100. It sounds salty but in the end, it'll last forever and with the hot wire, might make life easier by checking one thing off your "never have to do this again" list.