Can I clean my outboard's fuel gauge?

[FlyTheCoop]

My Yamaha outboard is only 18 months old and already I can not read the fuel gauge on the tank that came with it.
Is there a way to dismantle the parts to clean them? Or do I just need to suck it up and buy a new cap/gauge?

[hobopacket]

Suck it up and get a new one. Or old school it and take the cap off and have a look. I don’t even have a gauge on my 25’ cabin cruiser. I know average mpgs and only ever go 2/3 range.

[JPA Cate]

FlyTheCoop:

As long as the seal works for stowing, it's safe enough.

As for appearances, well a new one would look better. You might take the old one with you to the dealer, I'd ask them to replace, and see what you can negotiate.

However, you can sort of tell, just by hefting the tank. When you can easily do it with your little finger, it's time for more fuel. If you're used to hefting sacks of flour, when it's down to 5#, buy more. If you're going on a long dinghy explore (over 10 mi.), buy more, top it up. It's generally a good idea to have at least 4 liters spare on the mother boat.

Ann

[Suijin]

I've never had a fuel gauge that lasted more than six months and never really cared. Lifting it or knocking it lets you know what you have left.

[sailm8]

I replaced mine and in one season it frosted up. Now I just shake the tank.

[Cadence]

Originally Posted by hobopacket

Suck it up and get a new one. Or old school it and take the cap off and have a look. I don’t even have a gauge on my 25’ cabin cruiser. I know average mpgs and only ever go 2/3 range.

Or mark a stick to show remaining gallons and dip it when you want to know. That type of gauge is less than accurate anyway.

[Sardean]

When those gauges get old they rust inside and contaminate the fuel. I would replace it with a plastic breather cap before it causes carby problems.