I have a 1998 with a funky fuel gage. Like to many posts I have seen listing the problem of the gage going to EMPTY. I tried all the fixes without success. In the November issue of "Corvette Fever" magazine a fellow C5 wrote about his issues and the solutions reply noted that there is a Chevrolet service software update that changes the interval at which the fuel level readings are taken and also corrects other minor problems. Does anyone have more info on this software change as my dealer here in Vermont cannot help.
tks, Jerry 1298

 

 

and another:

Document ID# 1351974
2000 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette


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Erratic Fuel Gauge Reading (Reprogram the PCM) #02-06-04-010A - (Jun 27, 2003)
Erratic Fuel Gauge Reading (Reprogram the PCM)
1999-2002 Chevrolet Corvette

This bulletin is being revised to add models and update the Correction and Warranty Information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 02-06-04-010 (Section 06- Engine).

Condition
Some owners may comment about the fuel gauge intermittently indicating an empty reading and then return to the correct fuel level indication.

Cause
This condition may result when fuel blends containing aggressive sulphur compounds react with the fuel sender assembly, which may result in voltage spikes being induced on the fuel level signal to the PCM. Use of another fuel blend may reverse this reaction and return the system to normal operation.

Correction
Reprogram the PCM with the new service calibration which is available in the June 2003, Techline® TIS release sent to the dealers on 6/28/03. Use the TIS Version 7 or later data update.

Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation
Description
Labor Time

J6354
Powertrain Controller - Reprogram
Use Published Time

 

I saw that too, but the reprogramming only applied from 99-02.

 

For a list of updates available for your car go here:

http://tis2web.service.gm.com/tis2web

Take the list to your dealer and see if they can help you.

Take note that if you have a custom tune you will lose it when the reflash the computer.

 

Yep, I missed that it did not include the 98. So many subtle differences in years.

 

Now you know the OP's local dealer should not have access to this kind of information.

 

Here is a picture of the fuel level sensor:


I would suggest pulling it out, and cleaning it manually, either with a pencil eraser, or a good electronics spray cleaner.

 

Service instructions say to wash out the tank. With parts washer solvent or soap and hot water? What removes high sulfer content from a plastic fuel tank better?