erratic fuel gauge

[shoe]

On my 300D 83 model the fuel gauge is erratic and the reserve light comes on between half & a quarter tank of fuel. I have not diagnosed the problem yet, but I suspect the dash unit. My question is can you replace just the fuel gauge portion of that gauge cluster or do you have to buy the whole gauge assembly? I suspect that the whole assembly is rather pricey!Any help would be hepful.One other thing would this be available through the part's shop section of this site?

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Keith Schuster
83 300D
auto\hydraulic mechanic 20 yrs

[iozero]

Had the same problem with a 1980 450SL gas gauge. You probably need to remove the sender from the tank and clean it. It worked for me. I have seen lots postings on this site related to this issue so, rather than reiterate them, do a search and you will probably find the procedure. I didn't need to replace anything but you need to be careful as there are some very fine wires in the sending unit.

Good luck!

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Jim Loseke
1980 450Sl

[Douglas Broome]

One of the three reprints from the Star articles has the sending unit procedure in detail. e-mail me if you neet an exact citation or if you need a copy which I can e-mail yopu as at attachment. I have followed this procedure on several diesels and it clears up the problem.

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Douglas

[shoe]

Thanks guy's I have performed the cleaning of the tank sender and that seem's to have cleared it up. Man was it funky i'm suprised it worked at all. I have to say that this web site is worth it's weight in gold it has saved me quite a bit of money. Being a first time benz owner I have learned a lot and have become most inpressed with the construction of these vehicle's. Again thank's for all the help, if I can be of any help I certainly will.

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Keith Schuster
83 300D
auto\hydraulic mechanic 20 yrs