I just replaced my fuel pump in a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 5.9l. I got a complete fuel pump with regulater and everything from O’rileys. The fuel pump is working but now the gauge is showing empty and the fuel light is on. I didn’t have an empty tank when I installed because I took the bed off. My friend was telling me that it might need to have an empty tank in order to calibrate the sensor but it has a float and it’s an older vehicle so I wouldn’t imagine that would be the problem. It worked for a day and even went to full when I filled it but the next day it went to empty. I’ve tried removing the fuel relay and unhooking the battery. Do you guys know what could be wrong with it?

 

Gas gauge should work just fine, right out of the box. I suspect you got a bad part. Wouldn't be the first time.

What brand did you get?

 

I got a precision fuel pump assembly from ORileys. It was the correct fit for the truck and I had them verify that it was the same part number for even a 1996 just in case it was an older pump originally in the truck. It was weird because the gauge was working before I replaced the pump and it even worked for half a day after I replaced it. I’m not sure what’s wrong with it but the pump is working great. I just don’t want to have to replace it again especially if it’s going to do the same thing.

 

Check the connector at the pump module. The pins for the gas gauge may have pushed out a bit.... Or, the float may have sank...... in which case, the only fix is replacement.

I won't use the 'off brand' pumps and such. Denso, or Delphi only. I don't like doing those jobs twice.

 

I’m going to replace it tomorrow since it’s considered under warranty and I’ll take a look at the connectors then. I’m hoping that will fix it I just didn’t want to have to do it twice.

 

You are already doing it twice.

See if you can get your money back, or, pay the difference, and get a better quality pump.

 

what’s sad is that was the best one they had to offer the other one was their brand and it was a cheaper option. I’m hoping replacing it again will fix it but I doubt it lol

 

You could see if they will special order a better pump for you, If not maybe return the one for store credit and get one someplace else.

 

I ended up having to get a car quest one because they didn’t have anymore in town. The orileys fuel pump ended up having gas inside the float so they covered it under warranty and got my money bad.