2001 chevy silverado fuel gauge

My 2001 chevy silverado z71 has a problem with the fuel gauge indicator. The fuel gauge indicator has been jumping up and down as if it has it's own mind. What do I need to do to fix this problem? Yabby

 

Sounds like the fuel sender unit. This is located on the fuel pump so you have either drop the tank down, or get a few buddies to help you lift the bed up and out of the way.

 

Just a heads up here, the fuel level sensor can be replaced separately from the fuel sender assembly.

 

You're both correct!

It could also be an indication of a failing battery.

How old is the battery?

If it's 4 years or older I would replace it for good measure.

GM vehicles do have a known problem with faulty fuel senders.
If you go to the trouble of replacing the fuel sender do your self a favor and replace the pump as well.
The pumps also are failing.

 

These pumps do seem to be bad for going out, but I sincerely believe that it can be avoided with regular replacement of the fuel filter. If this is a module style fuel pump (which I believe it is) you are talking about some big $$$$ for a new one....especially if your current one is working fine. If I were you I would replace the sending unit only if you can find one and save the rest of your money to use on preventative mainenance measures (in this case....fuel filter replacement).

 

The fuel filter would have nothing to do with a fuel sender going out.

The fuel sender is a mechanical float device attached to the pump. The linkage and electrical sender portion are known to failure.

 

Perhaps I should clairify what I was suggesting. HotinOKC is in fact correct that the fuel filter has nothing to do with the sender going out....the fact that he misunderstood my post tells me that perhaps I wasn't clear enough.

What I was suggesting is that you replace ONLY the fuel sender as opposed to replacing the whole pump and sender module as Mackey suggested.

If you have $300 or so to burn then you might go ahead and replace your working fuel pump "while your in there," but if you are like me spending that much money one uneccesary parts doesn't sound too appealing. By suggesting the fuel filter, I was simply trying to give advice on how to drastically prolong the life of your current fuel pump to save you some money. I recommend replacing (or at least checking) the fuel filter regularly to avoid having to go back in and replace the pump anytime soon. With the filter removed you should be able to blow through the inlet side with little resistance....if not then it is stopped up and needs to be replaced.

 

Ah, I understand what you were trying to say now. Sorry that I did not understand what you were actually trying to say.

Fuel pumps are indeed a pretty penny ($275 @ Autozone).

Thanks for clarification fallen.