Optimistic gas gauge fowls up photo expedition

[51Deluxe]

Today I took the Deluxe northward today for a shorter 30 mile run. Wanted to take some photos at a vintage "filling station" at the tiny town of Guthrie KY. (actually in business, except on Sunday). Got the photos, started the engine, drove a few feet- stalled in the middle of the road. Gas gauge was above empty so I assumed vapor lock. I assumed wrong- it was empty. 3 guys stopped to help, the third knew the guy that owned the station, called and he was there in 5 minutes. $10 worth in the tank, a Coke can to put a few drops in the carb and she fired up and got back home just fine. I now know that on my gauge, 1/8 full means "EMPTY".

[joefrazer]

My 53K gauge reads the same. I also found that out the hard way not long after my first drive after purchase. My Traveler on the other hand, reads low, meaning I have more fuel in the tank than the gauge shows. And that's with a new sending unit.

The hardest part is remembering which car reads which way...

[51Deluxe]

Ever check your speedometer accuracy? On the way home, my wife (who had come to bring me gas before the station guy got there) followed me home. I called her and asked her to drive up beside me while I went exactly 55 by my speedometer. Her 2013 Avalon registered 58- but her GPS said 55. Later I read that Toyotas typically read 2-3 mph above true. So it appears my speedo is dead on.

Interesting that I got passed 3 times on this trip going the limit - and NO one passes in TN unless it's a tractor. Guess they either couldn't stand being behind an "old" car, or it was car guys wanting a look at the front.

[j762538]

Looks good but you need the chrome piece by the gas opening.

[84RabbitGTI]

One-who-shall-remain-nameless (calls himself Traveler Editor) ran out of gas TWICE coming home from two separate meets....   

[BigDave LM6174]

Chrome piece by gas door was a accessory.