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Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

Old 02-13-2011, 01:53 AM
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Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

OK, so when I turn my lights on my fuel gauge (i've got the V6 cluster with idiot lights if it makes a difference) goes as far below "E" as it can. But if I turn the dimmer switch and turn the panel lights off the gauge starts working again. I've been having other problems with this cluster too. The left blinker indicator occasionally stops working, and the temp idiot light never comes on (the bulb is good). I took the cluster out and cleaned the contacts where it plugs into the dash, hasn't helped. Any ideas? This is in my camaro btw.
Thanks guys
Alex
Old 02-13-2011, 08:15 AM
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Re: Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

I have a similar issue. When I turn on the headlights, the fuel gauge goes to below empty.
I have an original V6 Camaro, chassis and dash with a new tank and used sending unit from an earlier carbed vehicle.
I haven't sourced out the cause of the problem yet however I'm reasonably sure it's in the ground part of the circuit. It's just too cold here to go into the garage.
I'll be interested to see if anyone posts a solution.
Old 02-13-2011, 09:53 AM
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Re: Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

normally that happens when the cluster is loose...try pushing on the cluster to see if it makes a difference
Old 02-13-2011, 11:17 AM
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Re: Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

Interesting. I'll be swapping the cluster for what's in my old IROC. Maybe that'll be the fix.
Thanks.
Old 02-13-2011, 06:45 PM
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Car: 90 Formula WS6, 86 Sport Coupe
Engine: 305 TBI, 2.8 MPFI
Transmission: 700r4, 700r4w/vette servos
Axle/Gears: 2.73 Open, 3.42 Open
Re: Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

Originally Posted by irocwagon
normally that happens when the cluster is loose...try pushing on the cluster to see if it makes a difference
Just went out and tried that. If I push as hard as I can it starts working. Thanks for the help. However, the nuts securing the cluster are as tight as I can get them, think I need a new cluster?
Old 02-14-2011, 04:31 AM
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Re: Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

even though you cleaned the contacts it still may be loose fitting, check the contacts between the harness and the cluster, dont try overtighting, it probally wont help,its the illumination wire and grnd that cause this prob.im trying to remember what i did to fix it..
Old 02-14-2011, 06:38 AM
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Transmission: 700r4, 700r4w/vette servos
Axle/Gears: 2.73 Open, 3.42 Open
Re: Fuel Gauge Goes Dead When Lights On

Thanks for the help guys, I've got a hunch on what it is. I'll post again tmrw if I'm right.
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