fuel gauge/pumping problems

[gibby48]

I have a '91 Explorer and it has about 169,000 miles on it.

My fuel gauge stopped working. It is below the E while driving, but goes up toward 1/4 tank when cold.

I am also unable to fuel like normal. The pump shuts off dozens of times as I try to fill it. I cannot pump but at the slowest of rates, barely squeezing the handle.

Are these related/repairable? I've tried to keep tabs and I really don't think it is anywhere near full.

Today it only took 4 gallons (pumping the same slow way) and spilled like it was topped off.

Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

[dxrflyboy]

I have my doubts the problems are related, unfortunately. Your Explorer probably has an anti-slosh/siphon valve in the filler neck that is stuck closed. This valve is supposed to open when you fill the tank and close when fuel sloshes against it from inside the tank. Your gauge problem is most likely a faulty sender. The bad news is the gas tank has to come out to replace the sender. The good news is the slosh valve is easy to get to with the tank out.

[gibby48]

Is this something that will cost a lot to fix? I would guess mostly labor charges. But my family mechanic we've had for almost 20 years is the best. Thanks for the reply dxrflyboy.

[dxrflyboy]

The sender and the fuel pump may be one unit. If not, it's a good idea to change the pump with the sender while the tank is out. I would figure no more than $300 for parts, including the pump, plus a few hours labor.