Most of the time, the fuel gauge is not the problem. The problem rests with the sending unit in the fuel tank. To fix it, you must replace the sending unit. This is done in different ways depending on the position of the tank in your particular truck.
Replace the fuel leveling sensor that is on the fuel sending unit that's inside of the fuel tank.
My fuel gauge, odometer and radiator gauge isn't working and my radio says locked. How can I fix this?
BUY A FORD
I'm NOT 100% sure on this answer but do this and we will find out. If you are having a fuel gauge problem then CALL a Chevy parts house and ask them if they sell a FUEL LEVELING SENSOR by itself. If they do then buy it and install it on the fuel sending unit that is inside of the fuel tank and that will fix your gauge for awhile. Overtime the sulfur in the gas COATS the fuel leveling sensor and the gauge goes crazy. You may have to buy the WHOLE fuel pump sending unit just to fix your gauge. That will be A costly repair. Like I said, Don't know if they sell it by itself or not.
The normal causes of an inoperative fuel gauge is the sending unit in the tank. Since the truck is 15+years old you might as well replace the fuel pump when you have the fuel tank removed.
More than likely the sending unit in the fuel tank is bad. The fuel tank has to be removed to gain acces to it.
In most cases it is the sending unit located in the fuel tank that is at fault. Replacement is necessary.
Have a mechanic test the fuel sensor circuit. Likely the sensor has gone bad and will require replacement.
The Ranger fuel gauge could have several problems causing it not to work. These problems include, blown fuse, bad wiring, loose connections, or a bad fuel sending unit in the fuel tank.
Most fuel gauge problems are the result of a faulty fuel gauge sending unit located in the fuel tank.
Find out what's wrong and replace the broken part. It's either a fuse, the sending unit (in the tank) the gauge (in the dash) or a damaged wire or connector.
Most likely the sending unit inside the fuel tank is faulty. The fuel tank must be removed to gain access to the sending unit.