Low reading guages

[aidanfisher]

When I bought OME 87L both the temp gauge and the fuel tank gauge were reading something like less than half they should.

I changed the temp sender--no difference. Today I changed the voltage stabiliser--still reading the same.

Any suggestions as where to go now?? Help!

[Dave B]

Try an additional earth with good clean contacts to the (black wire) negative circuit at the rear of the instrument panel.

By the way, dont forget the Lancashire group meeting a fortnight tomorrow 25/1/18.
New Hall Tavern, Cuerdale Lane, Samlesbury, Preston PR5 0XA.
01772 877942

[tony]

When I had this problem a few years ago I found the earth terminal had dropped off the back of the speedo.
Tony.

[aidanfisher]

Just tried an new earth wire --back of speedo to body panel --just the same result!!

So now need to do some serious digging--snag is its b--y cold working out there!

Haven't forgotten about the 25th!

[Mike Stevens]

I guess you need to measure the voltage coming out of the regulator. If it's an original mechanical type it should wander about a bit but average to 10V ish. I think you've fitted a new one so that will (probably) be electronic so a steady 10V. Anything less than this is a fault as is much above 10V too!

As your gauges (temp and fuel) are reading low I'd expect the regulator output to be low. If it is, try disconnecting one or other (or both) leads from the regulator to the gauges. Maybe there's a fault in one which is pulling the 10V line down. Hopefully this will help you fault find!

Good luck,

Cheers,
Mike.

[Alec]

Hello Aidan,

if your voltage stabiliser is the original bimetal type, ensure that the case is properly earthed also. However as Mike says, if you can do a voltage check that will be very useful. (Analogue meters are better for the bimetal type.)

Alec

[aidanfisher]

Thanks for all the advice chaps--jobs on hold until this perishing weather lets up a bit. I have a trusty AVO meter so should be able to get some sensible readings.
Wish me luck!

[Mike Stevens]

An Avo would be the ideal instrument for measuring the voltage output. When you do, do check with the negative lead in various places, (speedo, voltage stabiliser, car body etc). All should read the same, but if they don't, that would point to the problem.

Let's hope it warms up a bit. And dries out!

Cheers,
Mike.

[torque2me]

When I bought OME 87L both the temp gauge and the fuel tank gauge were reading something like less than half they should.

I changed the temp sender--no difference. Today I changed the voltage stabiliser--still reading the same.

Any suggestions as where to go now?? Help!

I hope this is not another "no final outcome posted" subject?

Was there an outcome?

Kev