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Fuel level sensor fix

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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 12:40 AM
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Default Fuel level sensor fix

I finally took the time to drop the left fuel tank on my Z after dealing with a wacky fuel gauge for a couple years. I ran nothing but good gas through it and plenty of additives without a change in the randomness of my fuel level. Now I know why! The sensor actually broke off and was just loose in the tank other than being attached by a couple wires. There are two clips that keep it in place and one side was broken off. Now I need a reliable way secure back in place. I was thinking a couple small holes and self tapping screws would do the trick but I am open to suggestions.

-Ian

The sensor in place with clip not broken off.
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The side of the sensor with the clip missing and the hole it should clip into.
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 08:43 AM
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I would agree, small screw is what I would use. Make sure it is a high quality one so you don't have issues with it being in the gas all the time.
GL
Chris
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 12:31 PM
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If you use a screw, I would suggest putting a small lcokwasher under the head to maintain it in place. That and maybe some (very little) JB Weld that is gas compatible also. I think they make such a product.

Another option is to drill a little larger hole and put in a pop rivit threaded insert. Then you can use a threaded fastener with a lockwasher. PM me if you want more info on the insert concept. They are really great when you need a simple solution that allows the use of an aluminum insert. The fastener/lockwasher can be carbon steel or stainless.
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 01:55 PM
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Use stainless steel screws.
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 06:13 PM
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This thread has got me thinking that JB WaterWeld will do the trick since it says it is good for repairing fuel tanks. I will probably use a couple tiny self tapping screws from a head unit I took apart if I can't find stainless ones. They will just get completely sealed up to prevent rust. Draining all the fuel out was a PITA so I may go overkill with it so I don't end up doing this again! Thanks for the input!

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c1-a...afe-epoxy.html
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 08:07 PM
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After going to all the trouble to drop the tank...I think I would replace the part. (and I did on my 03)
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 10:12 PM
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Originally Posted by jcgunn
After going to all the trouble to drop the tank...I think I would replace the part. (and I did on my 03)
Yeah, but that is a lot of money to pay just to replace a broken clip on an otherwise perfectly good part!

Here is my solution:

Drilled holes
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Small screw and washer
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Screw in place
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JB WaterWeld that wraps all the way around to the other side and covers the screw
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Size:  530.6 KB

Last edited by generalcov; Apr 23, 2013 at 10:14 PM. Reason: typo
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 10:39 PM
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...a lot of wear and discoloration on the contacts--give it a good clean before re-installing
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Old Apr 23, 2013 | 11:08 PM
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Yep, that is the last thing I am doing before it goes back it. I am sure my phone camera isn't making it look any better!
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