C0 on cluster, no fuel, and "warning center" light

[1979f_100]

Well, I took delivery on my 86 XLT a couple of days ago and was able to start tinkering today. Before I picked it up it had been sitting still for two years so I put in a battery first. It turns over great and will run if you continue to spray carb cleaner down the tb but dies once you stop, so it appears it's not getting fuel. I reset the inertia switch (pass side kick panel correct?) and still the same. On my gauge cluster, this is what I see: I ran the instrument cluster test as per the FSM and all seems to be well with it. According to the mileage computer I have 352 miles to empty and I can hear fuel sloshing in the tank. So here are my questions 1) What is causing the fuel gauge to show C0 and have 4 bars when the other gauges appear to work properly (water temp and oil press?) 2) What is the best way to pull codes on this van? 3) I plan on tinkering some tomorrow as per the FSM to trouble shoot the no fuel issue, starting at the inertia switch. Anything in particular I should look out for or any tips? Thank you!

[93nighthawk]

Not sure about the CO issue, But one of the first things I would do is slap a new fuel filter on it, Sense it sat for a couple years, it could be plugged pretty good.

[xlt4wd90]

Aside from the filter, it could be the pump.

When you first turn the key to the "ON" position, do you hear the fuel pump run for a couple of seconds? If so, at least that's working, and you can check the fuel rail for pressure. If not, then it's a problem with the fuel pump, which could be the inertial switch, or the fuel pump, or its relay.

[96_4wdr]

drop the fuel tank
clean the tank and pump/sock filter.
2 year old fuel will only cause headaches.
ruins fuel injectors in seconds
nothing you can put in it to rejuvenate.

may as well be trying to burn molasses
garbage in, nothing out.

see sticky thread at beginning of Aero forum.
good luck and lots of fun with the "New" Aero

[1979f_100]

Pulled the code and got a 63 TP circuit below minimum voltage, which means....?

When I pulled the codes, I couldn't get them from the light inside flashing so I jumped a test light in the circuit. Is it supposed to give a few single flashes with long pauses (looked like 5-6, I didn't record them) and then flash the 63 a few times? Why didn't it flash the warning center light? And how do you reset the light?

Also, any other thoughts on the C0?

[93nighthawk]

Code 63 = TPS sensor fault. It is on the throttle body, and more than likely at that age toast and needs replaced.

My EEC-IV code pulling is a little rusty, but I believe those 5-6 flashes are to tell you how many cylinders there are. And did you run a KOEO (Key On Engine Off) or KOER (Key On Engine Running)? And Did you run a cylinder balance test?

[1979f_100]

Was a KOEO since it hasn't been started in 2 years.

No, haven't done a cylinder balance test. Not really sure what that is to be honest...

Had an epiphany earlier as well. The van hasn't been started in two years, but also hasn't been driven since 1997-98, so the tank may be that old. But I have no idea how much is in it since the gauge is showing like in the pictures above.

What's the best way to pump the old fuel out so I can drop the tank?

[93nighthawk]

Step 1: Open gas Door

Step 2: Remove Gas Cap

Step 3: Prop that little flap open

Step 4: Light Match

Step 5: Drop Match into hole

Step 6: Run like hell.....



Oh, you wanted to keep the van.

One way is to disconect the fuel line on the tank side of the fuel filter. Place fuel line into a gas can. Turn the ignition to the run position and watch the fuel pump fill up the gas can.

Otherwise you can run a syphon hose down the gas filler and manually pump it out if you are worried about destoying the fuel pump.

[vwhed1979]

I think it means circuit open. I get this when I fill the tank all the way, then after I use some gas up, it goes to F, then 19 on down. Maybe your fuel sender is bad. It will show the bars like that on mine too.

[Pablo-UA]

1979f_100 ! Is it freightlines Century hauls your aero?

[1979f_100]

Originally Posted by vwhed1979

Maybe your fuel sender is bad.

I was afraid of that. But if the gas is 11 years old or even close to that old I'm anything but surprised...

Originally Posted by Pablo-UA

1979f_100 ! Is it freightlines Century hauls your aero?

No, it's my dad's 1992 Peterbilt 377.

[Pablo-UA]

I used to fix 2002 Pet. last week. ))) they have auto tranny problems LOL!

[1979f_100]

I think I found the problem today...




That was a fuel pump at one point and was all in the bottom of the tank. I do hear at least one more piece in there but can't get ahold of it, and it's too bright outside for a flashlight to help. I'm just hoping now that the sludge isn't further up in the system. I didn't see any evidence of it in the metal lines on the top of the unit, or in the ends that connect to it. I REALLY don't want to have to do injectors on this van...

[96_4wdr]

betcha that Aero was a flood dog in it's recent past. that goo is more than just a little old gas turned to molasses.

expect rust holes thru the gas tank. blow the fuel lines out with compressed air and force acetone thru them, wear safety glasses.

Aero's do get swine flu, proof in the pictures

some floaters don't live

best to get a junke yarde dog tank and replace that swamp thing

[1979f_100]

Originally Posted by 96_4wdr

betcha that Aero was a flood dog in it's recent past. that goo is more than just a little old gas turned to molasses.

expect rust holes thru the gas tank. blow the fuel lines out with compressed air and force acetone thru them, wear safety glasses.

Aero's do get swine flu, proof in the pictures

some floaters don't live

best to get a junke yarde dog tank and replace that swamp thing

Shouldn't have rust holes as it's plastic.

What would be the best way to force it through the lines without damaging the injectors?

The rest of the underside of the van looks great though so I don't think it went under at any point.