gas gauge 47 willys cj2

[killer94061]

I have a 46 Willys that does not register. Is the float a usual problem
or is it the whole mechanism

[LarrBeard]

I have a 46 Willys that does not register. Is the float a usual problem
or is it the whole mechanism

It's almost impossible to diagnose without having any other information - but:

A. The tank unit is a variable resistor whose value varies as the float goes up and down. It's been too long since I've measured one, but use an ohmmeter between the screw terminal and sending unit frame to check resistance as the float is moved up and down. There should be some fairly low resistance value. If it measures several thousand ohms or so - the sender is open.

B. Check across the terminals of the gauge as well. In the '48's, I think the gauge was a bi-metal gauge. As the tank unit changed the current flow through it, the element heated up or cooled, swinging the needle. The gauge should be a fairly low resistance too.

C. Oh yes, check wires, rusty terminals, grounds to the frame.

Trust nothing on old Jeeps.