C5 Fuel guage sending unit redesign
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 38
Likes: 1
From: Kansas City MO
C5 Fuel guage sending unit redesign
I own a 2000 HT and just recently started having fuel gauge problems, droping to zero from 1/2 tank, and inaccuracies. I have exclusively run Amaco and BP gas without any problems until now. Since everyone is under the understanding that it is a sulfur problem with Amaco gas and other brands why doesn't someone find a new sending unit or create one that will replace the troublesome ones in the Corvettes. Sending units have been around for a long time.
So I am asking for some help. Can anyone point me to the original manufacture of the C5 fuel sending units? I think I can design a new sending unit and design any translator electronics to transform the senders signal to the proper one for the computer. This should be a permanent fix for our fuel gauge problem and give us back confidence in its reading and also allow us to run any gas brand we like without worrying about sulfur content.
Any help or information would be apprieciated.
I installed the collum lock bypass after I was locked at a restaurant one evening. Also a $400 cost to install a new one. So I am all for finding a solution for myself like others have done with the collum lock.
So I am asking for some help. Can anyone point me to the original manufacture of the C5 fuel sending units? I think I can design a new sending unit and design any translator electronics to transform the senders signal to the proper one for the computer. This should be a permanent fix for our fuel gauge problem and give us back confidence in its reading and also allow us to run any gas brand we like without worrying about sulfur content.
Any help or information would be apprieciated.
I installed the collum lock bypass after I was locked at a restaurant one evening. Also a $400 cost to install a new one. So I am all for finding a solution for myself like others have done with the collum lock.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 798
Likes: 0
From: Manchester NH
Re: C5 Fuel guage sending unit redesign (jdperk)
I know this isn't the type of advice you were soliciting, but until I had GM replace my senders, I had very good luck by keeping the tank more than half full. Every time the gauge acted up, with no exceptions, the tank was half full or less - never a problem with more than half a tank.
Not a solution, but a potential remedy until you can get it fixed.
You are right - GM has no good excuse for this kind of blunder. At least they got most of the car right, though.
-Pete
Not a solution, but a potential remedy until you can get it fixed.
You are right - GM has no good excuse for this kind of blunder. At least they got most of the car right, though.
-Pete
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 3,050
Likes: 124
From: Wichita KS
Re: C5 Fuel guage sending unit redesign (jdperk)
The fuel ending system (including fuel level) was redesigned mid 2003. The RPO code is FFS. I think this was the system GM used on the XLR and now on the C6. FFS does NOT (easily) retrofit into the older cars.
You might check, I believe there is a GM tech note on reprogramming a module rather than replacing the fuel level sending unit.
[Modified by mapman, 2:43 PM 5/16/2004]
You might check, I believe there is a GM tech note on reprogramming a module rather than replacing the fuel level sending unit.
[Modified by mapman, 2:43 PM 5/16/2004]
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 7,076
Likes: 26
From: Nevada and Florida
Re: C5 Fuel guage sending unit redesign (jdperk)
The FFS fuel system 2003-2004 (XLR, C6) addressed many of these issues but still fails if you check service records. The system cannot be retrofitted to older C5's (it is a complete redesign including PCM changes). GM redesigned the senders and put them at the top of the tanks to avoid sediment. It is a bitch to work on and typcially requires the entire driveline to be removed for repair.
