Gas gage reads empty with a 1/2 tank of gas

[hobbybob]

Hello!

My gas gage reads empty with a 1/2 tank.

I have owned 2 Bronco II and both did the same thing.

I never tried to figure it out on the first one.

I just figured I had a 150 mile reserve tank.

Is this a problem or a wrong sender?

Help!

 

[SunSpot]

The tank mounted sending unit works from silver coated resistance wire, measuring the (changing) resistance as the float goes up and down. Bad gas with high sulfur content will destroy the silver coating, or there could be dirt and crap in the tank that is screwing up the contact surface/readings. The float could bent/broken/or have a tiny hole in it causing it be heavy and ride lower in the tank. Really, unless you have been playing in your dash mounted gauge (knocking the needle out of whack) the usual culprit is the tank sending unit. (unfortunately)

They cost about 100 bucks (new) at parts store UNLESS it has a tank mounted fuel pump. If so, that sucker costs quite a bit more. I bought a new one and paid a guy to install it (gotta drain & drop the tank) I think i got out of his shop for under $200 (plus the cost of the part)