bad sending unit in gas tank

[88crwnvc]

my gas gauge quit working a while back, so i took it in to the shop, and they say that the sending unit is bad, and that the tank needs to be dropped in order to fix it. i would really like to try and do this my self and save some money since i'm trying to sell this car. it would be greatly appreciated if someone could leave some pretty thorough directions on how to drop the tank, replace the sending unit, and put the tank back. also, where do i get a sending unit? just at the local parts store?

any help would be greatly appreciated

[PICKUP6772]

First, you DO NOT have to drop the tank. Jack the car up by the frame, and let the rear hang as low as it will go. Remove the lock ring, and the sending unit will come out with little, or no hassles at all. Second, once the unit is out, reconnect the wiring, turn the key on, and move the sender through it's travel, while having someone watching the gauge. If the gauge moves, it's the float, which can be replaced seperately. If not, then you have to replace the sender. Also, and this is important, make sure you have less than 1/2 a tank in the car, or you'll be in for a really nasty bath! All in all, the whole job literally takes no more than an hour!!
Mike

[gadget73]

what he said. The fuel pump requires dropping the tank, sender for the gauge does not.

[88crwnvc]

i went to o'rielly's and they don't have just the sender.. i have to buy a whole kit that comes with a new fuel pump too. where can i just get a sending unit?

[PICKUP6772]

The sender, and fuel pump are seperate from each other. I don't believe you can get the sender in the aftermarket, but I could be wrong. I got mine from FORD. Like I said earlier, though, pull the unit, and see if you need the sender, or just the float. I wouldn't spend the money for the sender, if only the float needs to be replaced. From what I've heard from other members, the float is the most common problem.
Mike