SVX Network Forums Live Chat! SVX or Subaru Links Old Lockers Photo Post How-To Documents Message Archive SVX Shop Search |
IRC users: |
#1
|
||||
|
||||
fuel light
I have a 96 SVX Lsi, 70K.
Fuel was running low on fuel on the Florida Turnpike. Stopped off, got gas. The needle started to climb to full, as it did the low fuel light remained illuminated. As of now, I have driven it for about 150 miles with multiple starts and shutoffs in-between, low light is still on!!! Anyone had this? Seems like the low light sensor might be stuck. Also while driving on the Turnpike, out of nowhere comes a vibration coming from the front of the car not affecting the steering at all. Only happens while speeding up or coasting. I have searched this problem and nothing too specific comes up. Thanks for the help, Joseph P Last edited by subaruster; 12-16-2009 at 08:05 PM. |
#2
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
there are two separate senders for the gauge and the low level switch. The low level switch is likely stuck down. You could learn to love it until it dislodges itself or remove the sender and move it yourself
Tom |
#3
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
The problem reported would indicate a faulty sensor or or shorted associated circuitry. Alternatively some debris may be fouling the sensor.
The low level sensor is quite a sophisticated affair, is completely solid state and does not involve a switch or contacts. A thermistor (heat dependent resistor) is normally immersed in fuel and becomes intermittently dry when the level is low. The thermistor is simply connected in series with the indicator lamp and the wiring diagram shows that no amplifying or latching circuitry is involved. When immersed the resistance is at maximum and the lamp connected in series is not illuminated. A switching type thermistor will be used, such that there is a near specific cut off point rather than a gradual change in resistance. It must be presumed that the thermistor incorporated has a positive temperature coefficient, so that when the level is low and fuel evaporates from off the device, the temperature drops and the lamp illuminates. This would result in a flashing effect as the level drops and car movement causes turbulence. However if and when the tank becomes absolutely empty and remains so, the lamp will not remain illuminated.
__________________
Trevor, New Zealand. As a child, on cold mornings I gladly stood in cowpats to warm my bare feet, but I detest bull$hit! |
#4
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
I never knew it was a thermo resistor... Always figured it operated on a float switch... Learn something new every day
Tom |
#5
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
Ok thanks,I'll try and take out the sending unit and clean the one installed first before replacing. I'll let you know how it goes.
Joseph P Quote:
|
#6
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
Quote:
The sensor can easily be tested. Connect a small 12 volt, 3 watt lamp, in order to to simulate the dash indicator, in series with the sensor and a 12 volt supply. Then immerse the sensor in fuel, at which point the lamp should extinguish, to again illuminate when the sensor is removed and in free air. Compliments of the season, Trevor.
__________________
Trevor, New Zealand. As a child, on cold mornings I gladly stood in cowpats to warm my bare feet, but I detest bull$hit! |
#7
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
Wecome Joseph P. Not related to this thread but, if you ever need any help with other problems, let me know. I try to keep spare parts around like MAF, sensors, etc.
Gene
__________________
Gene and Ben 1992 SVX LS AWD 110K - Liquid Silver 1994 SVX LSi AWD 128K - White Pearl (daily driver) 1994 SVX LSi AWD 95K - Emerald Pearl (sold) 1992 SVX LS-L AWD 115K - Dark Teal 4.44 swap (sold) |
#8
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
I have time tomorrow to do that test, Trevor. I lost my FSMs. Do I access the sending unit through the back seat or the trunk?
Quote:
__________________
1996 SVX Barcelona Red 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybird Touring 2015 Nissan Leaf |
#9
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
Thanks, I do have one question and one needed part. I am starting a new thread for the question. titled "Vibration"
The part I need, I have been searching for over a year. Remote Transmitter. Part #: SOA386R205. It has been discontinued from Subaru. Do you have it??
__________________
1996 SVX Barcelona Red 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybird Touring 2015 Nissan Leaf |
#10
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
I have an extra remote unit for the door locks with a broken case (the corners where the screws holding the 2 halves together). Worked otherwise. You can PM me if interested.
Gene Quote:
__________________
Gene and Ben 1992 SVX LS AWD 110K - Liquid Silver 1994 SVX LSi AWD 128K - White Pearl (daily driver) 1994 SVX LSi AWD 95K - Emerald Pearl (sold) 1992 SVX LS-L AWD 115K - Dark Teal 4.44 swap (sold) |
#11
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
It seems the problem fixed itself. After filling the tank three times the light went out after the 3rd fill up!
__________________
1996 SVX Barcelona Red 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybird Touring 2015 Nissan Leaf |
#12
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
Quote:
This would now appear to be what was in fact the cause of the problem.
__________________
Trevor, New Zealand. As a child, on cold mornings I gladly stood in cowpats to warm my bare feet, but I detest bull$hit! |
#13
|
|||
|
|||
Re: fuel light
Quote:
__________________
Victor |
#14
|
||||
|
||||
Re: fuel light
My box's part number is the one I posted. Here is the thread I posted with a picture of the transmitter:
http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?t=52655
__________________
1996 SVX Barcelona Red 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybird Touring 2015 Nissan Leaf Last edited by subaruster; 12-30-2009 at 07:34 PM. |
#15
|
|||
|
|||
Re: fuel light
Quote:
__________________
Victor |
|
|