I just "won" a 1996 F-150 w/144k miles. Not a bad truck but needs work. One thing is that when I tried to put gas in the forward tank, none went it. It splashed out. like the line to the tank is plugged, and it doesn't not eventually drain. When you take off the cap, there is gas right there. Any suggestions?

Thanks

Steve

 

My guess is that the tanks are valved and the front tank is already full but the valve allowing fuel to be drawn from it is closed.

I've seen thoughs valves mounted in the cab just inside the drivers side door towards the back. Usually they have 3 positions. (Draw from Front Tank only, Both Tanks or Rear Tank only)

If the valve is to Rear Tank only or Both Tanks, there may be a problem with the front tank. Since the level doesn't drop I'd assume the tank its self doesn't leak. But it could be a leak in the supply and or return lines. Or the intank fuel pump may not be working, could be the pump it self or the power supply to it.

Of course they maybe they were just using the front tank as a "strategic reserve" and there is nothing wrong with it.

Doug

 

The gauge shows the front tank as empty, but if the gauge for this tank doesn't work (or the tank switch), then maybe the front tank is full.

How can I check to see if the gauge is working? It seems to be working fine for the rear tank. Rear tank showed empty, I put in 15 gallons and now it's full.

 

Unfortunatly I don't have my shop manual with me here. But you have a intank fuel pump and the fuel level sending unit is part of that assembly. If the harness is unpluged or damaged going to the unit on the front tank it could cause both the "empty" reading and the tank not emptying.

As far as checking the gage. Hopefully someone else here can help you. I'd have to check a manual that is back home.

I can tell you how to troubleshoot a military fuel gauge or adjust the head space and timing on a M2 .50 Cal Machinegun, but I don't think either of those will help you much.

Good luck,
Doug

 

I've found that the connecter from the wiring harness to the pump/gage assy. tends to corrode and cause problems on these trucks like that.