Fuel gauge reading over full?

[AK Addict]

Hey guys I have a 98 Explorer with a fuel gauge reading over full. I was down to about 1/8 of a tank and just before I pulled into the gas station the gauge went to over full. Filled the truck up and it still reads higher than it should when full. I put a new pump in two years ago so I doubt it's the sending unit and I would think if I had a loose connection it would of shown up earlier. I also replaced the alternator last year and I've had a couple of strange electrical issues in the past. Lately I've had a buzzing after using the turn signals like the flasher was sticking and once last winter the headlights dimmed for about 10 seconds then came back and have never done it again. I'm the second owner and it's only got just over 100k on it, any idea on where I should start. Thanks

1998 Explorer 4.0SOHC 4WD
Eddie Bauer Package with system monitoring package

 

[2000StreetRod]

sending unit

Did you replace the sending unit when you replaced the fuel pump? Most members (including myself) don't. It may be the sliding contact on the sending unit is no longer making contact.

 

[AK Addict]

Did you replace the sending unit when you replaced the fuel pump?

I replaced the whole assembly if I remember right.

 

[koda2000]

probably a short or an bad connection in the wire that feeds the fuel gauge. the gauge (like many gauges) works on OHMs resistance. if the wire is grounded it usually makes the gauge go to full HIGH.

 

[AK Addict]

Well finally got around to pulling the pump assembly and found a broken wire. A little solder and it's working again.

 

[Flash]

any idea on where I should start.

Your car is haunted. Get an exorcist.

Or if that doesn't work, check all of your ground wires.
See if you can find out where they're all supposed to be then make sure they're all there and connected properly.

Sometimes the indicator flasher unit buzzes like that.
My one does it on the left side only sometimes but not for a while.
I don't know if cleaning up all the connections will fix it - probably would.

 

[AK Addict]

Your car is haunted. Get an exorcist.

Or if that doesn't work, check all of your ground wires.

Look at the post above yours. I found the problem, broken wire on the sending unit.

 

[Flash]

Look at the post above yours. I found the problem, broken wire on the sending unit.

Yep, I saw that. I meant for the problem that wasn't answered - the headlights.