Freeing a sticky gas tank float?

When starting my 2000 Z71, the gas guage sometimes registers "Empty" for quite some time. Then after maybe a couple of minutes, it will kick up to where it should be.

I'm assuming this is due to a sticking float sensor. If this is so, what is a good way to remedy the problem? Again, this only happens once in a great while, not every time.

Thanks.

I also just started having this problem in my '01 5.3 Z71... tips appreciated.

BJ

My '99 silverado has fuel indicator problems. when tank is full, foot on brake at red light, the gauge will drop all the way down and low fuel message displays. this resets a few seconds after brake is released. It also ocurs when idling in park. I assume that sending unit needs to be replaced, just haven't done it yet. I did get some practice changing the sending unit in my '77 cj5. any advice would be appreciated!

You will need to replace the sender assembly.
The high sulfur content in some fuels degregates the card causing intermittant operation