fuel guage issue

[Ed516]

I have a 95 explorer with close to 400,000. It performs incredibly well and is reliable. However the gas guage has some problems. It tends to read full for quite a while then when it gets to showing a 1/4 tank it is really very close to empty. I am suspicious that 20 years and 400,000 miles means there may be considerable sediment in the tank and thought it a good idea to clean the tank out. I know there is no drain. Is there a way to siphon everything out or pump it out that would also get the sedminet. Is the best solution to remove the tank and really clean it out. Any tips?

thanks very much

Ed

 

[koda2000]

I have a 95 explorer with close to 400,000. It performs incredibly well and is reliable. However the gas guage has some problems. It tends to read full for quite a while then when it gets to showing a 1/4 tank it is really very close to empty. I am suspicious that 20 years and 400,000 miles means there may be considerable sediment in the tank and thought it a good idea to clean the tank out. I know there is no drain. Is there a way to siphon everything out or pump it out that would also get the sedminet. Is the best solution to remove the tank and really clean it out. Any tips?

thanks very much

Ed

the fuel level is determined by a float in the fuel tank. it moves an arm which is attached to a rheostat, the variable resistance is what makes the needle on the gauge move. after 400,000 miles yours is understandably worn out. you can replace the fuel pump assembly, but it's a rather expensive part and not the easiest job. is it worth it? that's up to you.

 

[SoNic67]

I was able to siphon the gas from tank by taking out the refill hose (at tank) and using a hand-pump.
Replacing the fuel pump and/or sender is not complicated job, once the tank is empty - I used a jack with a piece of wood under it.
At 400 k miles, I am amazed that fuel pump is still working.