{FORGED?} Re: Gas Gauge Trouble Shooting Help Needed

[AMC74Hornet@xxxxxxxxx]

On September 1, 2005 ROSS BLAIR wrote:

> Doc,
> 
> It sounds to me like you have an open somewhere between the regulator and the sensor wire (no power to or from the gauge). I'm not familiar with the instrument cluster in your Hornet, but I assume the gauge is bolted the the printed wiring board with two terminals that also serve as the gauge contact points. 
> 
> Use your multimenter to check for power at the circuit board pads to the gauge, then at both retaining studs. Sometimes the connection will corrode enough over time that you lose contact. You can usually fix this by losening and re-tightening the nuts (or you might have to remove the nuts and scuff up the copper pads with some fine steel wool or Scotchbrite pad). 
> 
> The gauge itself is just a bi-metal spring which bends as it heats. It's pretty robust, so problems with the actual gauge are usually in the electrical contacts. 
> 
> Note: The regulator for the gauges is simply a contact point which opens and closes a couple of times per second. When checking for power at the gauge, you will see voltage alternating beteen 0V and 12V (may not even see a full 12V or 0v reading on a digital meter if the sample rate is too slow).
> 
> You will have to do the tests with the gauges powered, so if the ACC position doesn't power the gauges, then you will have to test with ignition ON.
> 
> If gauge and contacts check out OK, then you probably have a broken sense wire between the gauge and the plug at the door pillar.
> 
> 
> 
> Ross Blair
> 69 BBO Javelin 390
> Ottawa, Ont.
> 
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Thanks for the info. Checking the gas with a 3 foot long 3/8's wooden dowel just ain't getting it any more.
"Doc" 








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