Fuel Sending unit in 2002 196

[SteveDoc]

I’m thinking about replacing my fuel sending unit on my 2002 196 the fuel gauge works but it is not very accurate. Nautique parts has what they call a calibrated sending unit for my year but it is expensive about $210 has anyone used this sending unit? Is it more accurate as the fuel gets low? Also to replace the sending unit do I need to remove the gas tank. Thanks everyone.
Steve

[NautiqueJeff]

I can't remember if the 2002 has the L-shaped tank, but if so, that's probably what they mean by "calibrated". It would take into account the shape of the tank instead of just reading a percentage based on the float level.

[SteveDoc]

Thanks for the reply Jeff. It does have the L shaped tank so that probably is what the calibration is for. How about changing it can it be done without removing tank?

[NautiqueJeff]

I believe so. Probably easiest to access the top of the tank from the trunk area. May possibly need to pull the rear seat backrest.

[Jonny Quest]

I changed out the fuel sending unit in my 2001 -- also with the L-shaped tank. You really don't need to spend big dollar$ on a calibrated sending unit. Get a Moeller marine sending unit (reed type and not swing-arm). Simply remove the existing unit and measure the length. Get a new sending unit that is the same length. As the tank is L-shaped, the sending unit will show fuel consumption in the first 1/3 to 1/2 of the tank to be somewhat different than the bottom 1/2 to 2/3 of the tank. No worries. You should be able to live with that.

Does your 2002 have the rear "trunk" or is the rear seat removable? No trunk and removable seat makes access to the fuel tank and sending unit easier.

JQ

[SteveDoc]

Thanks Jonny Quest I’ll check out the Moeller unit. The 2002 has the rear trunk style.
Steve