I need some additional advise. I found why the fuel gauge was dead, the wires at the sender unit were rusted. I touched the plastic and the cap just seperated. I only have a Chiltons manual and it is not very helpful.
Chiltons states the gas tank has to be dropped to remove the in tank unit - is that true. Is there any temporary repair that anyone knows.

I'm an okay "shade tree mechanic" but working around a full gas tank is a little unsettling.

Can I drive the car to the shop or would you suggest it be towed.

Thanks

Since my unit looked good otherwise, I spliced removed the plastic piece where the wires went through the top of the sending unit, and cut the wires just below it. Then I twisted tie wires together and sealed the splices with gasoline proof epoxy. I also sealed where the hole where the plastic had been (with wires passing through, with the same epoxy. After it cured, I reinstalled and it has worked fine since.

One warning, the unit BARELY fits on and out of the hole, the troubel being to get the "ping pong ball" float out and then in again. You can get it if you try different angles and a bit of pressure when needed. Just be careful not to let the ball get popped out of it's holder because it will be just about impossible to fish out if you drop it in the tank.

Good luck, you can do this job.
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Andy in St. Paul, '91 745 Regina 190K mi, '89 244 137K, '87 245 RIP

You do not have to drop the tank. There is an access door under the rear decking. You should get the bung nut tool that IPD sells.... it makes the job a lot easier. Don't forget to replace the seal.

p.s. Dump the Chilton's it is worse than no manual.

Thanks I had the access panel open that's how I discovered the sender unit wires where history. So from the feedback, I guess I can get at the unit through the access hole. If you have done it, is it a tough repair, some of he archive replies indicated getting the ring out and the new gasket in can be tricky.

Thanks again for the help

its not that bad of a job. had to do both of my 1990's. i would recommend doing it outside due to petrol fumes. the IPD bung nut tool is nice to have. my first sending unit I got on EBAY for $50 the 2nd from FCP for $95. you will probably also want to get a fuel sock, new gasket, maybe a new bung nut and a new intank hose. i reused the orginal pump in both cases. one of may cars I had to clean a bit of rust and paint with POR 15. IMHO once finished a good coat of rust proofing can't hurt.
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1990 240 Sdn 277K,tach,strut brace,turbo sway 1990 240 Wgn M47II 157K,tach,strut brace,poly bushings,IPD sways,bilsteins

GET A BENTLY BIBLE (MANUAL). This is the only manual you need for your brick. I believe you can swap out the send unit without having to drop the tank. It can be removed from inside the car. I believe if you remove the rear decklid/rug you should be able to see the door/plate that gives you access to the top of the fuel tank. Maybe someone with more know-how on the fuel tank with ring in. I would suggest you start purchasing tha manual ASAP as it will pay for itself in the long run. Good Luck!

Sincerely,
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Julio Meza

1979 264GL B27F 124K --> BW55->M46, CLS, IPD Sway, 81+ Dash, Gauges, Next: FLATHOOD

1979 262C B27F 159K --> Restore Project w/Possible B21FT

1984 245DL 213K -->Wifemobile

Thanks for the information, I'll start shopping for the "bible" tomorrow.

Haynes and Chilton seem to be the local favorites in my part of town.