1969 Corvette dash gauges

[Dave R.]

I recently purchased a 1969 Corvette coupe and noticed that the fuel gauge isn't displaying the accurate reading and the oil pressure gauge doesn't seem to be moving. Is there a way that I can test the gauges to eliminate them from the problem?
If I can establish that the gauges are functioning correctly then I can move on with the troubleshooting process.

Thanks

[Klaus Friedrich #33362]

Re: 1969 Corvette dash gauges

Hi Dave,

got the same problems with my 69.

Fuel gauge: A twisted sender arm shows "empty" when there are 2 inches of gas in the tank.
Oil pressure gauge: The axle of the hand was corroded and worked hard.

Good luck

Klaus
Germany

[Mark #28455]

ohm meter

Go underneath the gas tank, detach the wire to the sending unit, attach a 6 foot alligator test lead to the sender and a second to the ground. Now attach your ohm meter and go topside. Reach your hand into the tank and move the arm for the sender (empty tank preferred) and watch your ohm meter - you'll know what the problem is.
Mark

[Paul O.]

Re: 1969 Corvette dash gauges

Dave with the oil pressure gauge it is a copper tube that under pressure tries to straighten out moving the pointer for your indication. After time the copper tube can clog and if oil can not reach the end of the tube it wont straighten out as much the more it is clogged the less movement you will have. The tube can be cleaned out with chemicals that can break up the clog. After you clean out the tube and during the install fill the tube with a very light weight oil this will help your indication movement when cold the oil in the tube and line does not circulate. hope this helps. Paul

[Dick W.]

Re: 1969 Corvette dash gauges

Dave, many times the oil pressure guage can be repaired by just putting a drop or two of penetrating oil on the pivot points of the needle. Once you do than GENTLY move the needle by hand. Usually this is all you need.