Fuel Guage Malfunction

[Triton0552]

My fuel gauge, on my TR18, shows 1/4 tank.  But, I know the tank is full.  How can I determine if the problem is the gauge or the sensor?  If it's the gauge, is it simply a plug/play system?  Simply installing a new one?

Thank you.

Tj

[merc1997]

if you ground out your gauge and it works the needle will go all the way one way or the other.  if it does that, then you have an issue with your float in the tank.

bo

[Mike Cork]

Merc1997 is all over this. Ground out the negative side and it should read full. If it does then time to change the tank sending unit. Let's hope for a bad gauge.

[Triton0552]

Thanks guys!

[Mike Cork]

How did it check out?

[Triton0552]

Thanks for asking Mike - Nope!   

I have a 2010 Triton TR-18.  I finally figured out where the sender unit is, after removing both seats. That was an adventure in itself!  Now, the sender unit is tucked behind a wall of fiberglass.  If one could reach it, they would need very skinny arms.  So, I went to test the gauge.  It's a plug & play system.  Unless I cut a wire, I can't ground it out. Nor, is there anywhere to use the ohm meter.   

So, OMG!  Do they have to take the boat apart for a simple sender unit?   

LOL

[Triton0552]

I forgot to mention. When I turn on the key, the guage comes to life instantly. But, it stays at empty. I know I have a full tank of gas. 

[Bud Kennedy]

Sounds like the next step would be replacing the sender don't ya think?

[Oldfart9999]

As long as you can get to the sending unit it's an easy job, you can use a universal unit which will be easier to find and less money.
Rodney