i have a n/a manual that i got off my brother recently. the whole time he has had it the fuel guage has read between 1/2 and 3/4 even when it is empty (we know this as the fuel light still works) if u fill the car up past 3/4 the guage will register how much you have. Any idears?

Thanks

The fuel gauge works in real time, so what ever the level is in the tank it will indicate, even with ignition off. So you either have fuel in your float or a dodgy fuel sender in the tank, so get yourself in the boot, under the spare wheel, release the screws that hold the plate over the tank and lift out to investigate. ( Do not smoke a fag) while doing it lol

The fuel gauge is normally one of the most reliable out of the 4 in the dash, so i would say not likely the gauge itself, but dont rule anything out at this point.

it did have a dent in the tank that we pulled out yester day an we thought that the float was just getting stuck on the side of the tank

we pulled it out using a rope some mole grips and a bmw as a anchor. the dent is pretty much gone

but after we done it the tank moved up to just over the 3/4 mark with only about 20-25 worth of fuel in

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I would take the sender out of the tank and have a look at the float arm, may have bent it slightly.

sounds like a plan

probly have a look next weekend see if the needel goes down at all as i use it as the light still come on when it gets low

Groover is being a Top person.Again. and for what its worth I second his advice... I somehow feel compelled to add..

the nut ontop the fuel sender looks like its designed to be un-done by hand and if your lucky -no need to read any further

 

.. but no doubt it will be a bugger to unscrew. do not 'chiesel' it around as this risks breakage and snaping [think of this task as very similar to swapping the heating element in your home water tank] it needs to seal well when put together after or you car will stink unbearably every time you fill up . Use massive plumb gribs/ stilsons or even a G-clamp if need be to gain purchase..just dont strike it.