Gas gauge

[Jinx 64]

my gas gauge needle jumps like crazy while i'm driven and never gives me a accurate reading on how much gas is in the take... any ideas?

[graymarki]

Originally Posted by Jinx 64

my gas gauge needle jumps like crazy while i'm driven and never gives me a accurate reading on how much gas is in the take... any ideas?

That's typical on older chevy's. My 79 Elky does the same thing.

graymarki

[Shrubby]

Check the ground wire near the gas tank. It should be grounded somewhere around the top of the rear bumper.
Also check that the hot wire (I think it is pink) is connected to the gas tank. You'll have to reach up above the tank and feel for it.
Good luck.
Shrubby

[SolRaven]

Have your alternator tested, you will have to remove it but most parts stores will test them for free. If thats not it unplug, clean and replug the wires that go to the gas tank. If that doesn't work you might have to clean the connections behind the gauges. if it still does it it could be ether the sender in the tank or a short in between it and the gauge. if its a short and you haven't found it yet you probably wont.

i did step 2 first, than thought my stereo started acting up around the same time and i happen to have a spare alternate laying around so i switched them and both problems went away. when i had it tested the alternator barely passed, but i watched as the voltage was all over the place.