Hi folks...

Purchased an '89 Dakota, and I knew that the fuel pump was bad. Getting a fuel pump and strainer, no problem.

Getting a SENDING UNIT <--- problem! my float is floating freely (rusted off) in the tank, so I have to replace that. And it looks like Dodge /Chrysler has quit building that.

Can anyone help me find a sending unit for that ? (89 dodge dakota 6 cyl.)

Thanks!

 

OK... MORE INFO:

So looks like others have had this problem as well. and some have been able to repair in some way, or have gone to a pick-and-pull yard... but from what I can see the float arm is completely rusted solid on this one. The vehicle had 250,000+ miles, so I can believe that happens... but with a new engine (already installed by previous owner) I should not worry about miles.

TODAY, I am replacing the pump, which means that my gas gage won't work. and that's a drag. But the Dakota will run.

IF YOU KNOW A SOURCE FOR A SENDING UNIT, PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

 

If you can post a picture of your pump with the float arm.
If it is like the one in this post https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...-friendly.html
You can probably make your own float arm with some stainless Tig welding rod and a good pair of side cutters and pliers. Maybe a needle nose for the circle.
If you go that way bring in the broken arm to get the right size.

 

First, thanks for trying to help. It is appreciated.

I did see that thread about doing testing and repair, but that really hits the newer (1990 and later) units. Sadly, the unit in the 1989 that I have right now is completely shot. The unit itself is rusted and unable to move at all, so trying to repair the arm just won't work. Here is a picture:



The local Dodge parts counter, after verifying with my VIN, says that the complete assembly part number is: 5217865 But no luck on that so far.

 

You said the motor was replaced. Is it a stock motor with the TPI injection?

Just wondering if you could use a complete tank assy out of a 92-96.

 

The engine has a carb, it is not fuel injected.

Could it use a complete tank assembly? That would be a great option, but my repair shop here called some friends at the local auto graveyards and there was no luck finding a doner.

As to could I replace it with a 92-96 tank... well, I don't know. This is my first Dodge ever, so I would have to defer that question to those smarter than I on this subject.

 

I purchased a 93 tank to eventually use on my 87. Have not installed yet, but the tanks seem identical except for the sending unit assy.
Provided you have a regulator that will control pressure I believe you could use the newer tank.
You will probably need the plug assy and then match up your wiring.......
BTW what motor do you have?

 

That looks like the 22 gal tank on my 94.
Take a look at Ralph P's posts. he mentioned something recently about what it would take to use a later model pump in an 89 which is the year he owns. I remember it sounding simple but shrug. I think you'll have to go that way if you cannot find a used complete assembly so your gauge works.
never mind I was wrong :/
Here's the post I thought I was remembering https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...89-dakota.html
He seems to think an newer tank and pump is the way.

 

If it's just "rusted" in place, it may still be repairable.

I'd suggest hitting up car-part.com and look for "PUMP (only)" and messaging the wrecking yards that have that to see if they have the whole assembly.

RwP

 

This is definitely working for me... Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market (car-part.com)

Thanks for the suggestion. I had used them before, but had forgotten about it as a possible source.