Ford Repair: Fuel Gauge, ford ranger xlt, trip mileage

Question
1997 Ford Ranger XLT 4 cyl. no 4X4. My fuel gauge reads at just below half a tank of gas and the light for that area does not work (light bulb has been replaced and still doesn't come on). When I fill up or am on empty my gauge does not move. I have to drive by using my trip mileage. could this be the circuit board in the dash? I have been driving with this problem for over 2 years. And have had this truck since 1999. Is this something that can be fixed by myself? I can't afford to take it to a shop.

Answer
Hello Ann, Yes it could be a circuit board for the instrument cluster. Try calling some area salvage yards for pricing on a used cluster. The cluster is not to bad to remove and reinstall but you do have to be carefuel when this repair is performed. Hope this helps Thanks Tony