jacked_72

I've done some research and realize that the dash components changed between 98 and 99. I also see a lot of posts regarding the 99 and later fuel gauges and the TSB related to those years. I haven't found much information about how to fix an erratic fuel gauge on a 98 and so I'm asking for help.

On my 98 4runner (2.7L), the guage will read accurately if you turn the key on and let it sit until the needle raises to the top of its travel with the amount of fuel in the tank. I can turn the car on, and the needle with show an accurate reading. As soon as I move the car or back down the driveway, the gauge starts to drop. I can have a full tank, and the gauge will drop to half a tank or lower in a very short time.

I'm thinking that its not the sending unit itself, since it will always read accurately with the car sitting still and the key on. My best guess is that with the car moving, a ground or other wire is making intermittent contact, allowing the gauge to move downward quickly.

So, unless there is a better place to start, I'm thinking it must be a ground. I've found 4 grounds attached to the intake manifold. I've cleaned them up and reattached them, but the problem persists. I'm sure there are other grounds that I need to check, but I don't know where. If there is something other than grounds that I should be checking, please let me know that as well.

Thanks.

AZ_98_4Runner

Have you checked the on line service manual; https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/9...online-287476/. Also when you are at a stop light does it read correctly? If it does it could be a sticky float. Checking your ground is a good idea; I had a ground problem in a Mustang, I was a pain to track down. It might be a good idea to check all your grounds; and even install redundant ground wires to the block & firewall.