Fuel Gauge - Level Misinterpreted
87peugeot02BULLETIN NO. 219 ( 12)
DATE: February, 1987 (31)
SUBJECT: 1986 and 87 FUEL GAUGE
Fuel Gauge level markings may be misinterpreted by some customers. The following statements are common examples of a perceived inaccuracy problem.
"I can drive for longer distances from full to half than from half to reserve." or
"Fuel gauge goes down very slowly from full to half and much faster from half to reserve."
The information provided in this Service Bulletin should enable you to determine whether you are dealing with a perceived or a real problem.
1) Fuel Gauge Markings and Corresponding Indicated Level:
Note: The gauge is split in 1/4's from full to half and in 1/6's from half to reserve. This provides greater accuracy of fuel level at below half a tank.
2) Fuel Gauge Markings and Corresponding Average Fuel Useage in U.S. Gallons.*
Note: Fuel gauge calibration non-linear, therefore you can drive a greater distance from full to half (8 gallons) than from half to reserve (6.7 gallons).
3) Fuel Gauge Markings and Corresponding Average Fuel Quantity in U.S., Gallons.*
Note: 3.3 Gallons of fuel in tank when gauge is on last marking (reserve). This provides an adequate reserve level but it can be mis-interpreted as being empty.
* Fuel quantity indicated, starting off with completely dry tank.
4) Checking Operation of Low Fuel Warning Indicator The low fuel warning should come on with less than 2.5 gallons remaining in the tank. Prior to considering replacement of the sending unit for a non operational warning indicator:
a) check the electrical circuit to the dash warning light by disconnecting 3 Pin connector at sending unit and connecting a jumper wire between wires 65A and M65. If circuit is complete the warning light on the instrument cluster will be "on" (ignition switch in "run" position).
b) Make sure that there is less than 2.5 gallons remaining in the tank.
5) Checking Operation of the Fuel Gauge and Electrical Circuit Disconnect 3 pin connector at sending unit. With Ignition switch in "run" position, gauge should not register. Connect a jumper wire between wires 65 and M65, if circuit is complete the fuel gauge should register "full".
6) Checking Operation of the Sending Unit Refer to the attached table. The resistance values indicated in OHMs are measured at the ending unit (3 pin connector disconnected) between pin 2 (center) and pin 1 (right side).
Note: To compare sending unit ohm values against fuel gauge readings, reconnect plug and run engine at recommended idle speed. Static checks with ignition "on" and engine not running are inaccurate.