QuestionQUESTION: When the gas gauge indicates 1/8 full and the "DTE"(distance to empty is about 65, the gas tank is empty.
Suggestions to fix it so it indicates properly.
ANSWER: Hi Bob,
I suspect that the float in the fuel tank is compromised such that it is not accurately assessing the fuel level. The manual does not state what the variable resistance reading should be at different actual levels so I can't give you specific ohm values to measure. You could measure the resistance between the sending wire, (dark blue) that runs from pin 3 of the fuel pump module at the tank and pins 22 of the lower right multi-pin plug at the body control module in the dash, and chassis ground as a function of the fuel level. There is also a disconnect (on pin 2 of a 6-wire black plug/socket) for that wire behind the rear seat cushion near the left wheel well which would be a place to access the wire. I believe that the resistance increases as the level of fuel decreases, so the reading could be shifted to a lower reading with a resistor inserted in the wire, say at the connector behind the seat.
The body computer 'converts' the resistance and comminicates with the dash gauge via a digital signal, so that would not be easily modified.
To correct the float would involve removing the fuel pump module and replacing the float. That would involve dropping the tank from the vehicle and disconnecting a number of fuel lines related to the tank.
So if I were faced with this issue my choice would be to 'live' with the situation and make a mental correction to avoid running out of gas, or try adding a resistor to the line between the tank and the body computer. But those are the choices as best I can say.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer.
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QUESTION: Roland-The fix sounds like it would require a trip to a Chrysler dealership and hundreds of dollars.
I think your suggestioon of learning to live with it, may be the way we'll go.
Thanks. BB
AnswerHi Bob,
I agree that it isn't worth a repair bill. If you want to adjust the reading as I suggested you could buy (if you don't have already) several resistors at an electronics/radio shack store (say in the size range of 10,30,100 ohms at 1/4 or 1/2 watt as available), then remove the rear seat cushion and locate the connector I described and separate it. Jump a wire between pin 3 and its socket for the black ground wire. Then simply put one end of the resistor in the pin 2 socket for that dark blue wire and touch the other end to the pin 2 for that wire. Do this when the gauge is reading 1/4 (actually near empty) and see which resistor shifts the reading downscale to 'empty'.
Once you have found the correct value, cut the dark blue wire on either side of the plug and splice in the correct resistor, solder it, and insulate the joints so they don't short to the body when you have it plugged together and back where the connector belongs.
I have successfully shifted erroneous gauges in this manner. But if you want to live with it that is fine too.
Roland
