L3901 FUEL GAUGE MISBEHAVING

[TheOldHokie]

Started the two year old tractor today for the first time in several weeks. It was low on fuel (1/4 tank) so I started to refuel using the transfer pump and tank on my truck. Fuel gauge wasn't moving and I thought maybe the transfer tank was empty. Nope - plenty of fuel in it. Pumped a bit more and teh next thing I know its overflowing from the filler. WTF - gauge is only showing 1/2 full. Jumped on and started teh tractor and drove it over some bumps. Sure enough the gauge starts to move up and settles in just below the full mark. Up until now the gauge has always read a bit over full when the tank is topped off. It appears to me the float arm on the sending unit is sticking a bit. Anybody else had this issue?

Dan

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Some models if they get any water in the fuel or high humidity and low tank will rust up the linkage making them act erratic.

 

[GreensvilleJay]

Can also be a 'bad ' ground, especially if the tank is plastic. Bumping up and down the field can slightly move the 'connection' and 'hay it works fine now.....'
I see that with trailer lights, simple 1/8th turn of the grounding screw...the light works......

At least they use synthetic corks today, can't soak up the gas or diesel and read wrong.

 

[TheOldHokie]

Good things come to those that procrastinate.

After a few short trips the recalcitrant gauge is now functiknung properly. I guess sloshing fuel has freed up the float arm....

Dan