another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

I realize it's probably starting to look like we just bought a real piece of junk Model A as I keep coming up with things to fix on it. But the gas level gauge doesn't work and I'd really like to fix it. Is there some good info on how to go about it somewhere? I only have a couple of Model A books so far and neither have any such info in them. There is a swap meet near here next weekend and I hope to pick up some more manuals and maybe some parts as well.
Thanks.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Here is a link to 1 of many threads you will find with the search function.

I hope this helps a little. It is an easy job.

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showt...ight=Gas+gauge

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Also here is a video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucSV66JVyDc

When doing this job, replace all your gauge gaskets too. Use cork gaskets.

Best

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

For books, this is a must have. I have one always in the car and I just got another from eBay to have at home. I realized I was lazy to walk to the barn to pick the one that is in the car. At ebay I got it 1/2 price used.

Model A Ford mechanics handbook https://www.amazon.com/dp/0965824004..._5k8JDb0ZPTQED

Best

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Thanks all. I will look into replacing our gauge assy with a new one. I probably won't want to buy the special tools though just to do the job one time. What works without having the special tools shown in the video? Thanks again.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

the suppliers have a cheap wrench. If your chrome is garbage you can grip it with channel locks but it will booger it all up. You could try to wrap your pliers jaws with electrical tape. Its pretty straight forward the ring screws off. You probably need a new cork. there are gas gauge kits with cork new gaskets and glass.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

I paid for the tools and the full gasket kit partes less than $30 or around that. Look the vendors sites. It is cheap !!!!!!

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/T9300HD.html

https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A9313B.html

https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A9321-23.html


https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A9323.html


Here is all

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

You can also buy this. But I read to many bad reviews about these repro gauge complete assembled kits. So if yours is OK, then replace all what I pasted before and adjust the wire with the floater "if needed".

https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A9312D.html

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Before you tear everything apart look down into the tank and be sure the float and lever isn't hanging up on something. If you have some scrap brake rods you can cut a couple of feet off of the end and then cut a slot into the loop at the end of the rod to make a tool to bend the lever on the gas gauge.

Charlie Stephens

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

I got the rebuild kit from Snyders and resoldered the washer on to hold the plastic float, really easy. Someone had tried to replace mine before without the tools and it had four brass rings and many, many paper gaskets and still leaked. Doesn't leak now and shows the amount of gas in tank. I painted the gauge numbers with gas proof paint. It's a super easy job, get the tools and now you can help a friend with his new A. If you were close by I'd come over and help.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Don't say that! the gas gauge is a simple fix. Replace the float and your done, a couple of hours with the right tools and your on your way.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Replacing the float was one of the first repairs I completed on my car -- and I have only limited skills. Don't be intimidated.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Thanks all for the encouraging words. Though my gauge and bezel are not perfect, since they may be original to the car, and the quality of the repops are questionable, I think I'll order a rebuild kit. The float is probably the 1928 original too, and that might be the problem. How low do you reckon I need to have the gas level in the tank, with the rear of the car jacked up of course, to prevent gas from leaking out?

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Thom,
You just need to drain the tank so that the gas is lower than the gauge. Undo the fuel line at the carb with the shutoff valve closed and put a container under the line. Turn on the valve and let the gas drain out. But, remember (very important) disconnect the battery terminal first. NO SPARKS HERE!
Also, buy the tools. They're only about $7.00 at Snyder's.
Marty

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Replace that float with a neoprene one. The cork will fall apart.
You can take a bent coat hanger and reach down into the tank and hook the float arm. Pull it up gently and bend the wire to keep it in that position. Now go look at the gauge. It will probably read "F". There is not much that can go wrong with these things. It is usually the float disintegrated.
As suggested just deal with float and gaskets. If you don't buy the tool try putting a rag around the gauge bezel it MAY help to not ding up the antique part. The tool is cheap and is a great conversation piece down thee road.
Just remove the gas line from the carb and drain into a container. Have to get it below the gauge level. This can be checked by using a piece of wood as a "dip stick" through the gas filler hole. No need to jack the car up. "Enjoy the adventure"... Chap

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

The Lea Andrews manual is cheaper from the suppliers plus it is good to support them. https://www.brattons.com/model-a-mec...ook-vol-1.html
Supergnat

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

Where do you live Thom? If you are nearby I have the tools to do the job.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

I'm in western NC, in the foothills. I guess I need to update my profile.

Update-Profile updated.

Re: another project? our gas level gauge inop
 

I was in Murphy over the weekend...close?


TerryO