Back to the fuel gauge senders

[rickalan35]

Big D - At one point earlier this autumn, I complained on this forum that I had arranged to have the insides of both fuel tanks re-coated but subsequently the fuel gauges had ceased to function. You asked me if I knew if the tanks had been "grounded" when they were re-installed. Can you (or others here) expand on how these gauges are set up properly electronically? Perhaps mine are still capable of working if I gave them half a chance. Thanks Rick

[Big D]

My assumption was since they stopped working when the tanks were re-installed, a reasonable conclusion would be that something wasn't hooked up again or wired improperly. I would start by ensuring that the tank is grounded. Even if it's not required to get a reading for fuel level, it should be bonded. While you're at it, check the deck filler fitting. It should also be bonded for safety reasons. Start there, we can check one thing at a time. Here is a selection of instructions from Faria that may be helpful;
http://faria-instruments.com/manuals.php

[rickalan35]

Thanks for the Faria url, Big D. I had no idea that it existed. Very informative for all gauge related issues. I've bookmarked it.

I've read through the fuel sender info. I'm not sure what form of electrical hookup I'll be facing on my Trojan fuel gauge sender (2-wire or 3-wire) but in the very least I'll be able to converse with our marina mechanics about it in a somewhat semi-intelligent manner. I'm hoping that when the tanks were re-installed, the technician simply didn't re-wire them at all - fingers crossed.

I will indeed also check to make sure that the tanks are both grounded and also the the filler pipes as well. Thanks.

On another note, at one point last August I happened to glance up from the wheel and noticed that my compass bezel was floating upside down in the compass fluid. No matter of twisting it around on it's gyro stand would right it. I assume it needs replacing. Thoughts??