Sounds like a fuel pump going bad. I have a 1992 Dakota that I just had to replace the pump this last spring. I had the same problem. The sending unit worked just fine until it got down to a half tank and then it just fell over to empty. When removing the fuel pump (from the gas tank on a 92) there are alignment arrows on the fuel pump that MUST lign up with the mark on your gas tank or else your sending unit will not work properly. Hope this helps!
Yes. The fuel gauge in most vehicles will settle at 'empty' with the ignition off.
The rear axle will hold about 2.5 quarts.
Have it checked for codes, it will probably have to do with the fuel level sensor in the fuel tank.
When it says empty, you'd better believe it is.
the gross vehical weight is 2663 pounds according to the sticker on my door
That depends on fuel tank size and the cost of fuel. If your Dakota has the 22 gallon tank and gas is $4.00 a gallon that is $88.00 if completely empty.
It has a " check gage " light if the fuel gauge is at or near empty , the engine coolant temperature is high , or the engine oil pressure is low
In a 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac : The CHECK " GAGE " warning light comes on if the the oil pressure is too low , the engine cooling temperature is too high , or the gas tank gauge is near or at empty
Every time I fill up my tank from empty I get in about 17 gallons if I fill it up all the way up the spout.
Its probably the float in the gas tank that tells how much fuel is left in the tank... its sticking.
Either your engine temperature is too high , your oil pressure is too low , or your gas gauge is at or near empty
The gauge or sensor needs to be replaced.