55 T-Bird fuel gage

[Grumpy Rick]

My 55 T-Bird is converted to 12V, and I am going to replace the sending unit in the tank. Should I get one for a '56 to match the 12 V system?

They have different numbers in Larry's T-Bird catalog.

Thanks,
Rick

 

[dmsfrr]

Here's a link.
https://www.ctci.org/gilsgarage/6to12.php

Walt N. / Gil B. say the '55 Fuel gauges (99%) aren't voltage or polarity sensitive.
It's because they work on current & heat and are self regulating due to the bi-metal contacts in the sender, see diagram below.

But... the sender and gauge were originally made to match each other so if the dash has the oem '55 fuel gauge it would be better to get an oem style '55 fuel sender. An oem '56 sender is built to different electrical specs that won't pair up with a '55 gauge.

Or get a reproduction 12v conversion style sender/gauge Pair.
.

 

[rotorwrench]

Many times the old King Seeley pulse type senders just need the points cleaned to make them work like they should. The cap has to be removed on top to access the by-metallic strip & little points set. If the float is a snap in type, new floats are available to replace the old ones that are leaky or otherwise damaged. I try to use the OEM parts until I can no longer find replacements on the old KS systems. Put a runtz ICVR on each gauge affected for 12-volt operation (fuel QT, coolant temp, & oil psi). Just make sure you connect the battery for negative ground.

 

[Grumpy Rick]

Parts ordered, and it goes in tomorrow for some work, including the fuel gage. I will report back.



EDIT; 3-17. Reporting back. Larry's T-bird parts told me to order a 12V '56 sending unit for my '55 which is now 12V.

I went with that and the gage is now working. Also got a spring replaced on the passenger door handle. The door popped open while driving, and I quit driving it till it was fixed.

At the same time, my mechanic fixed both power windows. The previous owner put in two different units to replace the factory ones. They were slow and out of adjustment. Much better now.