1999 3.4 v6 prado main fuel tank problem

[Tas90 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Tas90]

Hi everyone,

Just seeking everyone's opinions on this issue. Our just purchased 1999 3.4 v6 petrol prado has started surging/power loss when running on the main fuel tank (giving the impression of it being starved of fuel) but as soon as we switch on to the sub tank you feel the power kick in and away it goes, runs fine and no problem whatsoever on the sub. Main tank fuel gauge is showing half full, so i am wondering about the below possibilities:

Main tank is empty but fuel gauge faulty?
bad/contaminated fuel?
fuel pump?


As the fuel was in the vehicle when purchased, i can't say whether the fuel in the main and the sub was from the same fuel source re potential bad fuel.

Had the vehicle mechanically tested pre purchase but nothing picked up there. Nothing picked up in my test driving and driving over the past week or so, so just a recent problem perhaps? i don't know.

Not happy about what has happened but now looking at sorting it and what i might be up for here?

Appreciate any help and opinions/thoughts around this.

Cheers.

Tas90.

[glen_ep Addicted PP Member Find all posts View Profile Close glen_ep]

Whatever the issue is with the main tank, the previous owner probably knew about it and hasn't used it for a long time. I'd suggest confirming it's actual level by physically tapping on the tank. If you think it's near empty, then flush out the tank, and add fresh fuel (start with 10L).

[Tas90 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Tas90]

Funny how we often assume the worst of things! Have further investigated to find out main tank was empty and took a full 90 litres! Prior to fully refilling, i added 20 litres and a container of injector cleaner and took it for a run with which it ran fine. It got the better of me so i took it to the bowser, filled up and yep tank was dry.

So in short, the main fuel gauge it seems is buggered. Anyone know whether there is much involved in getting that fixed and rough cost?

Thankyou for replies.

Cheers,

Tas90.

[sparksy Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close sparksy]

I had a 1998 petrol GXL that developed a similar problem with the guage not working. After a bit of mucking about we found the earth wire for the tank had burnt out and was broken in one spot. The earth wire is shared along with the tank sender units, it also is for the 12v outlet in the rear. The fridge we originally had developed a short and this overloaded and burnt out the earth wire. Toyota dealer was good about it and repaired it for the labour cost of only dropping the tanks. Once wire was replaced guages worked.

[Antman Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Antman]

Glad to hear the issue was not very big on your new purchase.

[kenwahoo Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close kenwahoo]

Tas, what brand fuel injector cleaner did you use and where did you buy it?

ken

[Fishin_Dan Member Find all posts View Profile Close Fishin_Dan]

I've been using this stuff after a cousin in the industry put me onto it. It's been really good, and I've definintely noticed a difference between using it & not using it. I've seen it at Repco (Usually in the bigger white bottle) for about $20. Highly recommend it.

http://www.lucasoil.com/products/dis...how&headTitle= - Lucas Fuel Treatment