1998 DODGE RAM 1500 open gas tank

proper lamp-on or lamp-off messages to the instru-
ment cluster. If the PCM sends a lamp-on message
after the bulb test, it indicates that the PCM has
detected a system malfunction and/or that the ETC
system is inoperative. The PCM will store a Diagnos-
tic Trouble Code (DTC) for any malfunction it
detects. Each time the ETC indicator fails to illumi-
nate due to an open or short in the cluster ETC indi-
cator circuit, the cluster sends a message notifying
the PCM of the condition, the instrument cluster and
the PCM will each store a DTC. For proper diagnosis
of the ETC system, the PCM, the PCI data bus, or
the electronic message inputs to the instrument clus-
ter that control the ETC indicator, a DRBIIItscan
tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information.
FUEL GAUGE
DESCRIPTION
A fuel gauge is standard equipment on all instru-
ment clusters (Fig. 17). The fuel gauge is located in
the lower left quadrant of the instrument cluster,
below the voltage gauge. The fuel gauge consists of a
movable gauge needle or pointer controlled by the
instrument cluster circuitry and a fixed 90 degree
scale on the cluster overlay that reads left-to-right
from ªEº (or Empty) to ªFº (or Full). An International
Control and Display Symbol icon for ªFuelº is located
on the cluster overlay, directly below the right end of
the gauge scale. An arrowhead pointed to the left
side of the vehicle is imprinted on the cluster overlay
next to the ªFuelº icon in the fuel gauge to provide
the driver with a reminder as to the location of the
fuel filler access. On vehicles equipped with a diesel
engine, text that specifies ªDIESEL ONLYº is located
across the fuel gauge below the gauge scale, but
above the hub of the gauge needle. The fuel gauge
graphics are black against a white field except for a
single red graduation at the low end of the gauge
scale, making them clearly visible within the instru-
ment cluster in daylight. When illuminated from
behind by the panel lamps dimmer controlled cluster
illumination lighting with the exterior lamps turned
On, the black graphics appear blue and the red
graphics still appear red. The orange gauge needle is
internally illuminated. Gauge illumination is pro-
vided by replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb
holder units located on the instrument cluster elec-tronic circuit board. The fuel gauge is serviced as a
unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The fuel gauge gives an indication to the vehicle
operator of the level of fuel in the fuel tank. This
gauge is controlled by the instrument cluster circuit
board based upon cluster programming and elec-
tronic messages received by the cluster from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) on vehicles
equipped with a gasoline engine, or from the Engine
Control Module (ECM) on vehicles equipped with a
diesel engine over the Programmable Communica-
tions Interface (PCI) data bus. The fuel gauge is an
air core magnetic unit that receives battery current
on the instrument cluster electronic circuit board
through the fused ignition switch output (run-start)
circuit whenever the ignition switch is in the On or
Start positions. The cluster is programmed to move
the gauge needle back to the low end of the scale
after the ignition switch is turned to the Off position.
The instrument cluster circuitry controls the gauge
needle position and provides the following features:
²Percent Tank Full Message- Each time the
cluster receives a message from the PCM or ECM
indicating the percent tank full, the cluster program-
ming applies an algorithm to calculate the proper
gauge needle position, then moves the gauge needle
to the proper relative position on the gauge scale.
The algorithm is used to dampen gauge needle move-
ment against the negative effect that fuel sloshing
within the fuel tank can have on accurate inputs
from the fuel tank sending unit to the PCM or ECM.
²Less Than Twenty Percent Tank Full Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives messages from
the PCM or ECM indicating the percent tank full is
about twenty percent or less for ten consecutive sec-
onds and the vehicle speed is zero, or for sixty con-
secutive seconds and the vehicle speed is greater
than zero, the gauge needle is moved to the one-
eighth graduation or below on the gauge scale, the
low fuel indicator is illuminated, and a single chime
tone is sounded. The low fuel indicator remains illu-
minated until the cluster receives messages from the
PCM or ECM indicating that the percent tank full is
greater than about twenty percent for ten consecu-
tive seconds and the vehicle speed is zero, or for sixty
consecutive seconds and the vehicle speed is greater
than zero, or until the ignition switch is turned to
the Off position, whichever occurs first. The chime
tone feature will only repeat during the same igni-
tion cycle if the low fuel indicator is cycled off and
then on again by the appropriate percent tank full
messages from the PCM or ECM.
²Less Than Empty Percent Tank Full Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives a message from
Fig. 17 Fuel Gauge Icon
8J - 26 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
ETC INDICATOR (Continued)

the PCM or ECM indicating the percent tank full is
less than empty, the gauge needle is moved to the far
left end of the gauge scale and the low fuel indicator
is illuminated immediately. This message would indi-
cate that the fuel tank sender input to the PCM or
ECM is a short circuit.
²More Than Full Percent Tank Full Message
- Each time the cluster receives a message from the
PCM or ECM indicating the percent tank full is more
than full, the gauge needle is moved to the far left
end of the gauge scale and the low fuel indicator is
illuminated immediately. This message would indi-
cate that the fuel tank sender input to the PCM or
ECM is an open circuit.
²Communication Error- If the cluster fails to
receive a percent tank full message, it will hold the
gauge needle at the last indication about five seconds
or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off posi-
tion, whichever occurs first. After five seconds, the
cluster will move the gauge needle to the low end of
the gauge scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the fuel gauge needle will
be swept to several calibration points on the gauge
scale in a prescribed sequence in order to confirm the
functionality of the gauge and the cluster control cir-
cuitry.
On vehicles with a gasoline engine, the PCM con-
tinually monitors the fuel tank sending unit to deter-
mine the level of the fuel in the fuel tank. On
vehicles with a diesel engine, the ECM continually
monitors the fuel tank sending unit to determine the
level of the fuel in the fuel tank. The PCM or ECM
then sends the proper fuel level messages to the
instrument cluster. For further diagnosis of the fuel
gauge or the instrument cluster circuitry that con-
trols the gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRU-
MENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
For proper diagnosis of the fuel tank sending unit,
the PCM, the ECM, the PCI data bus, or the elec-
tronic message inputs to the instrument cluster that
control the fuel gauge, a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
GEAR SELECTOR INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
An electronic automatic transmission gear selector
indicator is standard factory-installed equipment onthis model. The gear selector indicator information is
displayed in a Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD)
unit. The VFD is soldered onto the cluster electronic
circuit board and is visible through a window with a
smoked clear lens located on the lower edge of the
speedometer gauge dial face of the cluster overlay.
The dark lens over the VFD prevents the indicator
from being clearly visible when it is not illuminated.
The gear selector indicator displays the following
characters from left to right: ªP,º ªR,º ªN,º ªD,º ª2,º
and ª1º (Fig. 18). Respectively, these characters rep-
resent the park, reverse, neutral, drive, second gear,
and first gear positions of the transmission gear
selector lever on the steering column. The VFD illu-
minates a rectangular box around the character that
represents the currently selected lever position.
The gear selector indicator characters and graphics
appear in the same blue-green color and at the same
lighting level as the odometer/trip odometer informa-
tion when illuminated by the instrument cluster elec-
tronic circuit board. During daylight hours (exterior
lamps Off) the gear selector indicator VFD is illumi-
nated at full brightness for clear visibility. At night
(exterior lamps are On) the VFD lighting level is
adjusted with the other cluster illumination lamps
using the panel lamps dimmer thumbwheel on the
headlamp switch. However, a ªParadeº mode position
of the panel lamps dimmer thumbwheel allows the
VFD to be illuminated at full brightness when the
vehicle is driven in daylight hours with the exterior
lamps turned On. The gear selector indicator VFD is
serviced as a unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The electronic gear selector indicator gives an indi-
cation to the vehicle operator of the transmission
gear that has been selected with the automatic trans-
mission gear selector lever. This indicator is con-
trolled by the instrument cluster circuit board based
upon cluster programming. The cluster circuitry
automatically configures itself for the proper trans-
mission and automatic transmission model based
upon the hard wired transmission range sensor mux
circuit input to the cluster. The gear selector indica-
tor information is displayed by a dedicated Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) unit on the instrument
cluster electronic circuit board, and the VFD will not
display the gear selector indicator information after
the ignition switch is turned to the Off position. The
instrument cluster circuitry configures the gear selec-
tor indicator VFD based upon the following inputs
from the transmission range sensor:
²Open Circuit- If the cluster is configured for
an automatic transmission and the transmission
range sensor mux circuit is open, the cluster circuitry
controls the gear selector indicator display based
Fig. 18 Gear Selector Indicator
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 27
FUEL GAUGE (Continued)

LOW FUEL INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A low fuel indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters (Fig. 21). The low fuel indicator
is located on the left side of the instrument cluster, to
the left of the fuel gauge. The low fuel indicator con-
sists of a stencil-like cutout of the International Con-
trol and Display Symbol icon for ªFuelº in the opaque
layer of the instrument cluster overlay. The dark
outer layer of the overlay prevents the indicator from
being clearly visible when it is not illuminated. An
amber Light Emitting Diode (LED) behind the cutout
in the opaque layer of the overlay causes the icon to
appear in amber through the translucent outer layer
of the overlay when the indicator is illuminated from
behind by the LED, which is soldered onto the
instrument cluster electronic circuit board. The low
fuel indicator is serviced as a unit with the instru-
ment cluster.
OPERATION
The low fuel indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator when the level of fuel in the fuel
tank becomes low. This indicator is controlled by a
transistor on the instrument cluster circuit board
based upon cluster programming and electronic mes-
sages received by the cluster from the Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) on vehicles equipped with a
gasoline engine, or from the Engine Control Module
(ECM) on vehicles equipped with a diesel engine over
the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI)
data bus. The low fuel indicator Light Emitting
Diode (LED) is completely controlled by the instru-
ment cluster logic circuit, and that logic will only
allow this indicator to operate when the instrument
cluster receives a battery current input on the fused
ignition switch output (run-start) circuit. Therefore,
the LED will always be off when the ignition switch
is in any position except On or Start. The LED only
illuminates when it is provided a path to ground by
the instrument cluster transistor. The instrument
cluster will turn on the low fuel indicator for the fol-
lowing reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the low fuel indicator is
illuminated for about two seconds as a bulb test.
²Less Than Twenty Percent Tank Full Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives messages from
the PCM or ECM indicating the percent tank full is
about twenty percent or less for ten consecutive sec-
onds and the vehicle speed is zero, or for sixty con-secutive seconds and the vehicle speed is greater
than zero, the fuel gauge needle is moved to the one-
eighth graduation or below on the gauge scale, the
low fuel indicator is illuminated and a single chime
tone is sounded. The low fuel indicator remains illu-
minated until the cluster receives messages from the
PCM or ECM indicating that the percent tank full is
greater than about twenty percent for ten consecu-
tive seconds and the vehicle speed is zero, or for sixty
consecutive seconds and the vehicle speed is greater
than zero, or until the ignition switch is turned to
the Off position, whichever occurs first. The chime
tone feature will only repeat during the same igni-
tion cycle if the low fuel indicator is cycled off and
then on again by the appropriate percent tank full
messages from the PCM or ECM.
²Less Than Empty Percent Tank Full Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives a message from
the PCM or ECM indicating the percent tank full is
less than empty, the low fuel indicator is illuminated
immediately. This message would indicate that the
fuel tank sender input to the PCM or ECM is a short
circuit.
²More Than Full Percent Tank Full Message
- Each time the cluster receives a message from the
PCM or ECM indicating the percent tank full is more
than full, the low fuel indicator is illuminated imme-
diately. This message would indicate that the fuel
tank sender input to the PCM or ECM is an open cir-
cuit.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the low fuel indicator will
be turned on, then off again during the bulb check
portion of the test to confirm the functionality of the
LED and the cluster control circuitry.
On vehicles with a gasoline engine, the PCM con-
tinually monitors the fuel tank sending unit to deter-
mine the level of fuel in the fuel tank. On vehicles
with a diesel engine, the ECM continually monitors
the fuel tank sending unit to determine the level of
fuel in the fuel tank. The PCM or ECM then sends
the proper fuel level messages to the instrument
cluster. For further diagnosis of the low fuel indicator
or the instrument cluster circuitry that controls the
LED, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). For
proper diagnosis of the fuel tank sending unit, the
PCM, the ECM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic
message inputs to the instrument cluster that control
the low fuel indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
Fig. 21 Low Fuel Indicator
8J - 30 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR

OPERATION
Fuel Pressure Regulator Operation:The pres-
sure regulator is a mechanical device that is not con-
trolled by engine vacuum or the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM).
The regulator is calibrated to maintain fuel system
operating pressure of approximately 58   2 psi at the
fuel injectors. It contains a diaphragm, calibrated
springs and a fuel return valve. The internal fuel fil-
ter (Fig. 2) is also part of the assembly.
Fuel is supplied to the filter/regulator by the elec-
tric fuel pump through an opening tube at the bot-
tom of filter/regulator (Fig. 2).
The regulator acts as a check valve to maintain
some fuel pressure when the engine is not operating.
This will help to start the engine. A second check
valve is located at the outlet end of the electric fuel
pump.Refer to Fuel Pump - Description and
Operation for more information.
If fuel pressure at the pressure regulator exceeds
approximately 60 psi, an internal diaphragm opens
and excess fuel pressure is routed back into the tank
through the bottom of pressure regulator.
Both fuel filters (at bottom of fuel pump module
and within fuel pressure regulator) are designed for
extended service. They do not require normal sched-
uled maintenance. Filters should only be replaced if
a diagnostic procedure indicates to do so.
FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT /
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel pump module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor track (card).
OPERATION
The fuel pump module has 4 different circuits
(wires). Two of these circuits are used for the fuel
gauge sending unit for fuel gauge operation, and for
certain OBD II emission requirements. The other 2
wires are used for electric fuel pump operation.
For Fuel Gauge Operation:A constant current
source is supplied to the resistor track on the fuel
gauge sending unit. This is fed directly from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM).NOTE: For
diagnostic purposes, this 12V power source can
only be verified with the circuit opened (fuel
pump module electrical connector unplugged).
With the connectors plugged, output voltages
will vary from about 0.6 volts at FULL, to about
8.6 volts at EMPTY (about 8.6 volts at EMPTY
for Jeep models, and about 7.0 volts at EMPTY
for Dodge Truck models).The resistor track is
used to vary the voltage (resistance) depending on
fuel tank float level. As fuel level increases, the float
and arm move up, which decreases voltage. As fuel
level decreases, the float and arm move down, which
increases voltage. The varied voltage signal is
returned back to the PCM through the sensor return
circuit.
Both of the electrical circuits between the fuel
gauge sending unit and the PCM are hard-wired (not
multi-plexed). After the voltage signal is sent from
the resistor track, and back to the PCM, the PCM
will interpret the resistance (voltage) data and send
a message across the multi-plex bus circuits to the
instrument panel cluster. Here it is translated into
the appropriate fuel gauge level reading. Refer to
Instrument Panel for additional information.
For OBD II Emission Monitor Requirements:
The PCM will monitor the voltage output sent from
the resistor track on the sending unit to indicate fuel
level. The purpose of this feature is to prevent the
OBD II system from recording/setting false misfire
and fuel system monitor diagnostic trouble codes.
The feature is activated if the fuel level in the tank
is less than approximately 15 percent of its rated
capacity. If equipped with a Leak Detection Pump
(EVAP system monitor), this feature will also be acti-
vated if the fuel level in the tank is more than
approximately 85 percent of its rated capacity.
Fig. 2 SIDE VIEW - FILTER/REGULATOR
1 - INTERNAL FUEL FILTER
2 - FUEL FLOW TO FUEL INJECTORS
3 - FUEL FILTER/FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
4 - EXCESS FUEL BACK TO TANK
5 - FUEL INLET
6 - RUBBER GROMMET
7 - TOP OF PUMP MODULE
14 - 6 FUEL DELIVERY - GASDR
FUEL FILTER/PRESSURE REGULATOR (Continued)

REMOVAL
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM IS UNDER A CON-
STANT PRESSURE (EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF).
BEFORE SERVICING THE FUEL PUMP MODULE,
THE FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE MUST BE
RELEASED.
(1) Drain and remove fuel tank. Refer to Fuel
Tank Removal/Installation.
(2) The plastic fuel pump module locknut (Fig. 15)
is threaded onto fuel tank. Install Special Tool 6856
to locknut and remove locknut (Fig. 16). The fuel
pump module will spring up slightly when locknut is
removed.
(3) Remove module from fuel tank.
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: Whenever the fuel pump module is ser-
viced, the rubber gasket must be replaced.
(1) Using a new gasket, position fuel pump module
into opening in fuel tank.
(2) Position locknut over top of fuel pump module.
Install locknut finger tight.
(3) Rotate module until embossed alignment arrow
(Fig. 15) points to center alignment mark. This step
must be performed to prevent float from contactingside of fuel tank. Also be sure fitting on fuel filter/
fuel pressure regulator is pointed to drivers side of
vehicle.
(4) Install Special Tool 6856 (Fig. 16) to locknut.
(5) Tighten locknut. Refer to Torque Specifications.
(6) Install fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Removal/
Installation.
FUEL RAIL
DESCRIPTION
The fuel injector rail is used to mount the fuel
injectors to the engine.
OPERATION
High pressure from the fuel pump is routed to the
fuel rail. The fuel rail then supplies the necessary
fuel to each individual fuel injector.
A quick-connect fitting with a safety latch clip is
used to attach the fuel line to the fuel rail.
The fuel rail is not repairable.
CAUTION: The left and right sections of the fuel rail
are connected with either a flexible connecting
hose, or joints. Do not attempt to separate the rail
halves at these connecting hose or joints. Due to
the design of the connecting hose or joint, it does
not use any clamps. Never attempt to install a
clamping device of any kind to the hose or joint.
When removing the fuel rail assembly for any rea-
son, be careful not to bend or kink the connecting
hose or joint.
Fig. 15 FUEL PUMP MODULE (TOP)
1 - FUEL FILTER / FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
2 - ALIGNMENT ARROW
3 - TOP OF PUMP MODULE
4 - LOCKNUT
5 - ALIGNMENT MARKS
Fig. 16 LOCKNUT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION -
TYPICAL
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6856
2 - LOCKNUT
14 - 12 FUEL DELIVERY - GASDR
FUEL PUMP MODULE (Continued)

(15) Install air duct to air box.
(16) Connect battery cable to battery.
(17) Start engine and check for leaks.
5.7L V-8
(1) If fuel injectors are to be installed, refer to Fuel
Injector Removal/Installation.
(2) Clean out fuel injector machined bores in
intake manifold.
(3) Apply a small amount of engine oil to each fuel
injector o-ring. This will help in fuel rail installation.
(4) Position fuel rail/fuel injector assembly to
machined injector openings in intake manifold.
(5) Guide each injector into intake manifold. Be
careful not to tear injector o-rings.
(6) Pushrightside of fuel rail down until fuel
injectors have bottomed on shoulders. Pushleftfuel
rail down until injectors have bottomed on shoulders.
(7) Install 4 fuel rail holdown clamps and 4 mount-
ing bolts. Refer to Torque Specifications.
(8) Position spark plug cable tray and cable assem-
bly to intake manifold. Snap 4 cable tray retaining
clips into intake manifold.
(9) Install all cables to spark plugs and ignition
coils.
(10) Connect electrical connector to throttle body.
(11) Install electrical connectors to all 8 ignition
coils. Refer to Ignition Coil Removal/Installation.
(12) Connect electrical connector to throttle body.
(13) Connect electrical connectors at all fuel injec-
tors. To install connector, refer to (Fig. 17). Push con-
nector onto injector (1) and then push and lock red
colored slider (2). Verify connector is locked to injec-
tor by lightly tugging on connector.
(14) Connect fuel line latch clip and fuel line to
fuel rail. Refer to Quick-Connect Fittings.
(15) Install air resonator to throttle body (2 bolts).
(16) Install flexible air duct to air box.
(17) Connect battery cable to battery.
(18) Start engine and check for leaks.
FUEL TANK
DESCRIPTION
The fuel tank is constructed of a plastic material.
Its main functions are for fuel storage and for place-
ment of the fuel pump module, and (if equipped) cer-
tain ORVR components.
OPERATION
All models pass a full 360 degree rollover test
without fuel leakage. To accomplish this, fuel and
vapor flow controls are required for all fuel tank con-
nections.Two check (control) valves are mounted into the
top of the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Check Valve
for additional information.
An evaporation control system is connected to the
fuel tank to reduce emissions of fuel vapors into the
atmosphere. When fuel evaporates from the fuel
tank, vapors pass through vent hoses or tubes to a
charcoal canister where they are temporarily held.
When the engine is running, the vapors are drawn
into the intake manifold. Certain models are also
equipped with a self-diagnosing system using a Leak
Detection Pump (LDP) and/or an On-Board Refueling
Vapor Recovery (ORVR) system. Refer to Emission
Control System for additional information.
REMOVAL- EXCEPT DIESEL
Fuel Tank Draining
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM MAY BE UNDER
CONSTANT FUEL PRESSURE EVEN WITH THE
ENGINE OFF. THIS PRESSURE MUST BE
RELEASED BEFORE SERVICING FUEL TANK.
Two different procedures may be used to drain fuel
tank: through the fuel fill fitting on tank, or using
the DRBtscan tool. Due to a one-way check valve
installed into the fuel fill opening fitting at the tank,
the tank cannot be drained conventionally at the fill
cap.
The quickest draining procedure involves removing
the rubber fuel fill hose.
As an alternative procedure, the electric fuel pump
may be activated allowing tank to be drained at fuel
rail connection. Refer to DRB scan tool for fuel pump
activation procedures. Before disconnecting fuel line
at fuel rail, release fuel pressure. Refer to the Fuel
System Pressure Release Procedure for procedures.
Attach end of special test hose tool number 6541,
6539, 6631 or 6923 at fuel rail disconnection (tool
number will depend on model and/or engine applica-
tion). Position opposite end of this hose tool to an
approved gasoline draining station. Activate fuel
pump and drain tank until empty.
If electric fuel pump is not operating, fuel must be
drained through fuel fill fitting at tank. Refer to fol-
lowing procedures.
(1) Release fuel system pressure.
(2) Raise vehicle.
(3) Thoroughly clean area around fuel fill fitting
and rubber fuel fill hose at tank.
(4) If vehicle is equipped with 4 doors and a 6 foot
(short) box, remove left-rear tire/wheel.
(5) Loosen clamp (Fig. 23) and disconnect rubber
fuel fill hose at tank fitting. Using an approved gas
holding tank, drain fuel tank through this fitting.
DRFUEL DELIVERY - GAS 14 - 17
FUEL RAIL (Continued)

FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT /
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel tank module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor track (card).
OPERATION
The fuel tank module on diesel powered models
has 2 different circuits (wires). Two of these circuits
are used at the fuel gauge sending unit for fuel
gauge operation. The diesel engine does not have a
fuel tank module mounted electric fuel pump. The
electric fuel pump (fuel transfer pump) is mounted to
the engine.
For Fuel Gauge Operation:A constant input
voltage source of about 12 volts (battery voltage) is
supplied to the resistor track on the fuel gauge send-
ing unit. This is fed directly from the Engine Control
Module (ECM).NOTE: For diagnostic purposes,
this 12V power source can only be verified with
the circuit opened (fuel tank module electrical
connector unplugged). With the connectors
plugged, output voltages will vary from about .6
volts at FULL, to about 7.0 volts at EMPTY.The
resistor track is used to vary the voltage (resistance)
depending on fuel tank float level. As fuel level
increases, the float and arm move up, which
decreases voltage. As fuel level decreases, the float
and arm move down, which increases voltage. The
varied voltage signal is returned back to the ECM
through the sensor return circuit.
Both of the electrical circuits between the fuel
gauge sending unit and the ECM are hard-wired (not
multi-plexed). After the voltage signal is sent from
the resistor track, and back to the ECM, the ECM
will interpret the resistance (voltage) data and send
a message across the multi-plex bus circuits to the
instrument panel cluster. Here it is translated into
the appropriate fuel gauge level reading. Refer to
Instrument Panel for additional information.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
For diesel removal and installation procedures,
refer to the gas section of Fuel System/Fuel Delivery.
See Fuel Level Sending Unit/Sensor Removal/Instal-
lation.
FUEL LINES
DESCRIPTION
Low-Pressure Lines Are:
²the fuel supply line from fuel tank to fuel trans-
fer (lift) pump.
²the fuel return line back to fuel tank.
²the fuel drain (manifold) line at rear of cylinder
head.
²the fuel supply line from fuel filter to fuel injec-
tion pump.
²the fuel injection pump return line.
High-Pressure Lines Are:
²the fuel line from fuel injection pump to fuel
rail.
²the 6 fuel lines from fuel rail up to injector con-
nector tubes
WARNING: HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LINES DELIVER
DIESEL FUEL UNDER EXTREME PRESSURE FROM
THE INJECTION PUMP TO THE FUEL INJECTORS.
THIS MAY BE AS HIGH AS 160,000 KPA (23,206
PSI). USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN INSPECTING
FOR HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LEAKS. INSPECT FOR
HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LEAKS WITH A SHEET OF
CARDBOARD. HIGH FUEL INJECTION PRESSURE
CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY IF CONTACT IS
MADE WITH THE SKIN.
OPERATION
High-Pressure Lines
CAUTION: The high-pressure fuel lines must be
held securely in place in their holders. The lines
cannot contact each other or other components. Do
not attempt to weld high-pressure fuel lines or to
repair lines that are damaged. If lines are ever
kinked or bent, they must be replaced. Use only the
recommended lines when replacement of high-pres-
sure fuel line is necessary.
High-pressure fuel lines deliver fuel (under pres-
sure) of up to approximately 160,000 kPa (23,206
PSI) from the injection pump to the fuel injectors.
The lines expand and contract from the high-pres-
sure fuel pulses generated during the injection pro-
cess. All high-pressure fuel lines are of the same
length and inside diameter. Correct high-pressure
fuel line usage and installation is critical to smooth
engine operation.
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 57

FUEL TANK
DESCRIPTION - DIESEL
The fuel tank is similar to the tank used with gas-
oline powered models. The tank is equipped with a
separate fuel return line and a different fuel tank
module for diesel powered models. A fuel tank
mounted, electric fuel pump is not used with diesel
powered models. Refer to Fuel Tank Module for addi-
tional information.
REMOVAL - DIESEL
Fuel Tank Draining
Due to a one-way check valve installed into the
fuel fill opening fitting at the tank, the tank cannot
be drained conventionally at the fill cap.
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) If vehicle is equipped with 4 doors and a 6 foot
(short) box, remove left-rear tire/wheel.
(3) Thoroughly clean area at top of fuel tank
around fuel tank module.
(4) Remove rubber cap from auxiliary fitting on
top of tank module (Fig. 19).
(5) Drain fuel tank by attaching drain hose from
an approved draining station to auxiliary fitting on
top of tank module (Fig. 19).
Tank Removal
(1) Loosen clamp and disconnect rubber fuel fill
hose at tank.
(2) Support tank with a hydraulic jack.
(3) Remove 2 fuel tank strap nuts (Fig. 20) and
remove both tank support straps.
(4) Carefully lower tank a few inches and discon-
nect fuel pump module electrical connector (Fig. 19)
at top of tank. To disconnect electrical connector:
Push upward on red colored tab to unlock. Push on
black colored tab while removing connector.
(5) Disconnect fuel supply and return lines at fuel
tank module (Fig. 19). Refer to Quick-Connect Fit-
tings for procedures.
(6) Continue to lower tank for removal.
(7) If fuel tank is to be replaced, remove fuel tank
module from tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Module
Removal/Installation procedures.INSTALLATION - DIESEL
(1) If fuel tank is to be replaced, install fuel tank
module into tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Module Remov-
al/Installation procedures.
(2) Position fuel tank to hydraulic jack.
(3) Raise tank until positioned near body.
(4) Connect fuel tank module electrical connector
at top of tank.
(5) Connect fuel supply and return lines to tank
module.
(6) Continue raising tank until positioned snug to
body.
(7) Install and position both tank support straps.
Install 2 fuel tank strap nuts and tighten.Tighten
rear strap nut first.Refer to Torque Specifications.
(8) Remove hydraulic jack.
(9) Connect rubber fill hose to fuel fill tube and
tighten clamp.
(10) Install tire / wheel (if necessary).
(11) Lower vehicle.
(12) Fill fuel tank with fuel.
(13) Start engine and check for fuel leaks near top
of module.
Fig. 19 FUEL TANK MODULE - DIESEL
1 - TOP OF FUEL TANK
2 - AUX. FITTING
3 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
4 - FUEL TANK MODULE (TOP)
5 - LOCKNUT
6 - FUEL SUPPLY LINE
7 - FUEL RETURN LINE
14 - 62 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR