Fuel Gauge not working

[shoebag22]

The analog fuel gauge for my 135 honda is not working as it always displays full. Where should I start, at the gauge or at the fuel tank?

[ChrisF]

I'd start with the fuel sender unit in the tank. Sometimes they just get stuck.

[jigger]

I'd start with the fuel sender unit in the tank. Sometimes they just get stuck.

I'd check the connections at the sending unit. Moisture does build up in the bilge so you might have corrosion at the connections.

[ESAD]

Remember, check if you have a good ground. Continuity check between the sender and the gauge, ground-side.

[shoebag22]

thanks for the input guys. I will start at the tank and work my way back.

[extractor]

All is sound advice given above but I would recommend putting a fuel flow meter on the boat and not worry about the gauge. The gauges are always unreliable and inaccurate for the most part and measuring actual fuel running through the motor is the best way to keep tabs on fuel. Relatively small investment for a sound peace of mind of knowing how much fuel you have burned and what's left in the tank. IMHO of course.

[Sandy]

Gauge diagnostics provided by Faria:

Resistance values: http://faria-instruments.com/site_manuals/IS0085E.pdf

Diagnostic flow chart: http://faria-instruments.com/site_manuals/IS0100_ApxVII.pdf

Diagnostics: http://faria-instruments.com/site_manuals/..._MiscGauges.pdf

Flowmeters are certainly more accurate when dialed in correctly but if the totalizer is not reset at full fillup it will read incorrectly , perhaps by a lot. , so having std fuel gauge as well is highly recommended.

[shoebag22]

Gauge diagnostics provided by Faria:

Resistance values: http://faria-instruments.com/site_manuals/IS0085E.pdf

Diagnostic flow chart: http://faria-instruments.com/site_manuals/IS0100_ApxVII.pdf

Diagnostics: http://faria-instruments.com/site_manuals/..._MiscGauges.pdf

Flowmeters are certainly more accurate when dialed in correctly but if the totalizer is not reset at full fillup it will read incorrectly , perhaps by a lot. , so having std fuel gauge as well is highly recommended.

do i need a honda specific flowmeter?

[Sandy]

No. Honda does apparently have a plug-in digital multi-function gauge that includes fuel management , but it only lists compatibility with the BF115, 200/225 hp engines 2005 and newer.

I'd imagine you could use a Floscan (many models) , Lowrance 400 or 200, or Northstar 310 or 210, or probably others .

*Edit: Now Honda does list the 2005 & newer BF135 as among the engines that can use the Honda Fuel Management Gauge .

http://marine.honda.com/pdf/accessories/ml.rerap45a.MAC_Gauges.pdf Part # 06373-ZY3-800

Edited June 1, 2010 by Little Katuna

[shoebag22]

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Edited May 27, 2010 by shoebag22