Reproduction Parts for 1916-1964 Chevrolet Passenger Cars & 1918-1987 Chevrolet & GMC Trucks



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#227689 12/15/11 12:38 PM
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Lemont Offline OP
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I have A 32 coupe which I stripped to the frame. One of my few remaining issues is my gas gauge. I am certain that I have the correct wiring from the gauge to the starter switch, and the other wire to the gas tank. Wiring is all new, and I put a new rebuilt tank unit when I installed the tank.
When I turn the starter switch on, there is a slight movement at the gauge and the needle returns to empty.
I have used a dip stick to the tank and there is about 1 1/2 inches of gas in the tank.
How can I determine if I have a good ground?
Is my only option to drop the tank and check the connections at the tank unit.
Is there a way to check if the tank unit is working properly?


Paul Orednick
Lemont #227726 12/15/11 10:15 PM
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If your gauge reads empty with the key on then your ground is ok. The sending unit should be one that is 0-30 ohms, 30 being full and 0 being empty. If you unhook the wire at the sending unit the gauge should read past full, with the key on. If you ground the wire to the sending unit the gauge should read empty, with the key on, if it passes these test then your problem is the sending unit, or the float stuck or binding. If it does not pass the tests then it is a problem with wiring or the gauge.


Dens Chevys 1927 Speedster 1928 coupe 1941street rod 1947Fleetline 4 door 1949 1/2 ton Pickup (sold) 1954 210 4 door 1972 Monte Carlo 2003 Corvette convt..
Lemont #227738 12/16/11 01:23 AM
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I am certain that I have the correct wiring from the gauge to the starter switch


Don't you mean the Electrolock instead of the starter switch?

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The Mangy Old Mutt

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I agree with JYD, the gas guage needs to get power when the ignition is turned on where as connecting to the starter switch will only get power when cranking the engine.
Tony


1938 1/2 ton Hope to drive it before I retire
tonyw #227748 12/16/11 08:47 AM
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Lemont Offline OP
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I will try these tests today. Results later. Thank You


Paul Orednick
tonyw #227754 12/16/11 11:35 AM
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the gas guage needs to get power when the ignition is turned on where as connecting to the starter switch will only get power when cranking the engine.


On a 1932 Chevrolet, there isn't a push button starter switch. An Electrolock is used instead that goes directly to the side of the distributor. The gas gauge wire is attached to the side of the Electrolock terminal marked "Coil - Gauge". The starter does have a mechanical switch on top that is activated through a foot pedal. The hot wire going to the back of the amp meter is attached to the terminal on the mechanical switch that is on top of the starter.

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The Mangy Old Mutt

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to cold in the garage--may not get to it for a while. Thanks again


Paul Orednick
Lemont #227800 12/16/11 11:40 PM
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If you have domiciles in both Florida and Illinois, you need to make a change.


devil Agrin


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Lemont Offline OP
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Why change--Florida in the winter ---Illinois in the summer. This year I will be late getting to Florida as I have a health issue to deal with---I like Illinois health care. Paul


Paul Orednick
Lemont #229353 01/02/12 01:32 PM
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Lemont Offline OP
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Thank you. I changed the gauge (I had 2) and its working fine. The outer chrome edge of the first one is in much better condition than this one that is working. I see that the rear of the gauge has small bent edges to remove the chrome and glass. what issues do I have to be concerned about if I try to exchange the rim.


Paul Orednick
Lemont #229359 01/02/12 02:30 PM
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what issues do I have to be concerned about if I try to exchange the rim.

None...if you are careful.

By the way, the bezel is nickle plated, not chrome.

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The Mangy Old Mutt

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Lemont Offline OP
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thank you


Paul Orednick

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