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Old 17-05-2013, 07:40   #1
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Tank Guage Problems

Our Diesel fuel tank level sending unit recently failed, reading off scale high. I shorted the leads together and the meter reads 0 so the wires to the sending unit appear to be good. Replacing the sender looks like it will involve removing six screws completely by feel as access is very limited.

Our water tank level indicator hasn't worked for several years, even after replacing the sending unit. Suspect a bad wire but don't have the initiative to try running a new one. Now using a standpipe to check levels when needed.

These gauges are made by VDO but I can't find part numbers anywhere.

Anyone have the part number for the Diesel tank sending unit? How did you replace the sender?
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Old 17-05-2013, 08:08   #2
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

Here is the sensor info for the FP Mahe water and fuel senders.

http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...tml#post660235
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Old 17-05-2013, 10:22   #3
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

Cotemar,

Thanks for the info but my sender has spade-type connectors so it can't be the same as that shown.

I do hope someone can provide the right answer because the VDO website doesn't help a bit. It has way too many choices.

Guess I'll have to pull the bugger to see what model it is.
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Old 17-05-2013, 11:41   #4
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

I replaced the water tank gauge (and sender):

VDO Ocean Line Black Face model 3011122
4-20ma capacitive type

Sender: 23.5", 12v, 4/20ma, 5 hole

Not sure about the fuel gauge, let us know when you figure it out.
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Old 24-08-2014, 19:21   #5
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

DotDun,

Where is the sender located? I presume our configs are the same - twin SS water tanks. We have a Maestro version, and I think you do as well. Do I have to remove the starboard head inboard shelves or the port forward berth inboard bulkhead to access the top of the tanks?

Thanks

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Old 24-08-2014, 19:36   #6
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

Quote:
Originally Posted by peteatbeach View Post
DotDun,

Where is the sender located? I presume our configs are the same - twin SS water tanks. We have a Maestro version, and I think you do as well. Do I have to remove the starboard head inboard shelves or the port forward berth inboard bulkhead to access the top of the tanks?

Thanks

Pete
The tanks are plastic. The only sender is on the port tank, and yes, you figured out how to get to it. The sender is capacitive type and I found if there is any mineral buildup on it, it screws up the sensor. I removed it and ran a cleaner thru the tube and it helped.

Good luck!
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Old 24-08-2014, 19:45   #7
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

Great news. Another project on the list simplified (I think). Thanks.

Pete
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Old 31-08-2014, 18:38   #8
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

Update: The tanks on hull #83 are stainless steel, and the sending is on the starboard tank. I checked while replacing starboard head hoses. (I haven't checked the port tank yet.) I removed the sender and it has two small posts - one covered in white plastic and the other not covered. There is a small break in the plastic (might have occurred when I removed), and some small rust like spots near the bottom. The sender has a number stamped on bottom of send head - 02 240 401, but I can't cross this to any spec. It appears to be the same physically as the VDO 226 453 you recommended in an earlier comment.

I checked the sender operation. When red/black wires are connected to the sender head, the tank gauge reads full. When removed the gauge doesn't move. I presume this indicates there isn't a problem with wiring. So, now I have to decide to spend $300 for a new sender, or be more attentive to filling or running the WM.

Thoughts?

Pete
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Old 01-01-2015, 07:41   #9
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Re: Tank Guage Problems

Update: Finally had some down time to replace the water tank sender. In general it is not difficult to accomplish. However, if you are doing this I've learned that there are some key steps for finalizing the install that are not obvious in the instructions:

- Assuming you have mounted the sender in the tank and connected the control wires, you most likely will see that the gauge still won't work correctly. I learned that the factory doesn't tighten the set screws that hold the two rods in place on the sender top unit. There is a hex key in the package and once you have tightened the screws against the rods the sender will begin to operate properly.
- Using a small straight slot screwdriver you then must make adjustment to a small potentiometer on the top of the sender unit. It is easier to for two people to accomplish - one on the tank top and the other providing readings on the tank gauge.

It is obviously helpful to know what the water level in the tank is before making the adjustment. Best to fill the tank completely before attempting.

Happy New Year to all.

Pete
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