Fuel Gauge on John Deere 5520

Topher265 · Apr 21, 2015

Neal 5520:

I'd advise against buying a cluster unless you test first and determine it has failed.

Just my thoughts: So you tried moving the float on (what I assume would be) the new sender while it was out of the tank and plugged in and you were watching the gauge? How about testing the wires at the gauge while doing the same test? Meaning, instead of using the gauge as a readout, use an DVOM and you should see the Ohms move up and down as the float is moved. This will tell you if the problem is in the gauge or if it's a problem in the wiring from the gauge to the sender. Personally, I like to test 1/2 way between the gauge and the sender, so I know which direction to move for the next test (towards the gauge or towards the sender) to look for the issue.

Also, since I read this sender works from 4.5 to 97.5 Ohms, I'd suggest a modification to JD5210's test idea. You could buy a very cheap resistor of around 51 Ohms. Use this with a jumper between the gauge leads for fuel level at the gauge (and with the sender disconnected), as the sender is merely a variable resistor. If you jumper it, and the gauge reads around 1/2 full, then the gauge is not the problem and you know you need to look to the wiring to/from the gauge & to/from the sender. You could also check and report back on the voltage available at the sender, and if any of the wiring has continuity to ground.

JD5210 · Apr 21, 2015

Lets hope you do not have to replace the cluster. Try greenfarmparts.com if you do, sometimes they have a 10% coupon they send you via email, if you sign-up for it on their site. It is my understanding that if you tell them you have an id on GTT you get a 5% discount. Note there is no return on electronics.

Looking at JDparts.com it looks like your cluster is the same on my tractor (Re232258). I did not go through all the clusters to check this. Per the instructions when I replaced mine, there is a wire in the key switch which needs to be moved to make the new cluster work.

I kept my old cluster as by hooking up power to it I am able to show the hour meter, just incase I should every have to sell it.

Neal 5520 · Apr 21, 2015

Thanks everyone for suggestions it will be a few days before I have time to do anymore testing. Gauge hasn't worked for a couple years anyway. When I use this tractor I just go by the fuel tank and fill it up. I just got it back together had to put in new pto clutch and pressure plate. Just thought I would fix gauge while I was working on it.

sixdogs · Apr 21, 2015

Neal 5520 said:
Thanks I'll try that looks like I'll have to buy a cluster

My 5520 cluster was replaced under a warranty issue a number of years back. Not sure what it had to do with but might be worth checking out with a dealer.