Instrument Panel, Gauges and Warning Indicators: Testing and Inspection

Fig. 2 Typical vacuum gauge:

This gauge, Fig. 2, measures intake manifold vacuum. The intake manifold vacuum varies with engine operating conditions, carburetor adjustments, valve timing, ignition timing and general engine condition.
Since the optimum fuel economy is directly proportional to a properly functioning engine, a high vacuum reading on the gauge relates to fuel economy. Most gauges have colored sectors the green sector being the ``Economy'' range and the red the ``Power'' range. Therefore, the vehicle should be operated with gauge registering in the green sector or a high numerical number, Fig. 2, for maximum economy.




FUEL ECONOMY WARNING SYSTEM
This system actually monitors the engine vacuum just like the vacuum gauge, but all it registers is a low vacuum. The light on the instrument panel warns the vehicle operator when engine manifold vacuum drops below the economical limit. Switch operation is similar to that of the oil pressure indicating light, except that the switch opens when vacuum, rather than oil pressure, is applied.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Fuel Economy Warning Light
The fuel economy warning light should go on when the ignition is turned on. If it does not light, disconnect the wire from the fuel economy vacuum switch connector and ground the wire to the frame or cylinder block. If the warning light still does not go on, check for burned out indicating bulb or an open in the harness between the vacuum switch and instrument panel. If the warning light goes on, circuit is functioning and the vacuum switch should be checked for proper ground. Remove and clean the mounting bracket screws and the mounting surfaces.
If system still does not operate, perform the following:
With the electrical connector and vacuum tube disconnected from the switch, connect a self-powered test light to the switch electrical connector and to the vacuum gauge mounting bracket. Attach a vacuum pump to gauge. If the following conditions are not met the switch has to be replaced:
1. With vacuum applied test light should be ``Off.''
2. With no vacuum to the vacuum switch test light should be ``On.'' If the warning light remains lit when it normally should be out, check vacuum hose to vacuum switch for damage or plugged condition.