New to me 3600 - Gauge Decisions

LarryBud · Jan 15, 2023

Hi Folks,

I have a new to me, Ford 3600 diesel. I'm now digging in a little deeper and believe my gauge panel is questionable.

It's a new replacement panel and the tach works but the fuel gauge shows full ( and there's less 1/2 tank ) and the temp gauge does not register. I going to assume the tach is the only thing working.

Would I be better off adding an after market temp and oil pressure gauge or try to hook up the panel. The oil pressure is just a warning light and I like the idea of seeing my pressure. I'm looking for the easiest solution which will allow me to safely operate the machine. My electrical trouble shooting skills are a rate limiting factor.

Thoughts?

kenbob · Jan 15, 2023

In most cases, the gas gauge is a grounding issue. I have the same problem with mine but the temp gauge does work.

LarryBud · Jan 15, 2023

I'm not too worried about the fuel. I can keep it topped off. I do worry about overheating and I think it's wise to keep an eye on oil pressure in these older machines.

Bern · Jan 15, 2023

Did the new gauge cluster come with new sending units? If not, you likely have a compatibility issue between the new style gauges and the old style sending units. Contact the vendor you bought the panel from and see if you can squeeze more info from them on that.

As for aftermarket gauges, if you go that route I would make temp the priority, because the oiling systems on those engines are pretty much bulletproof. The other problems with aftermarket gauges are 1) where to install them in a way that doesn't look tacky, and 2) weatherproofing, as most of those gauges aren't designed to be exposed to the elements.

Keith Williams · Jan 15, 2023

I went thru this on my 4600. I purchased new sending units from the same vendor for my temp and fuel.
They both work now.
The temp sender is on the front of the block high by the hose neck.
You can pull the fuel sender out from behind the gauge cluster.
My ground wire was broken as it came out of the wire bundle. Check it.
There is a fuse that protects the cluster.
Also before you go too far check to make sure the wires are connected.
My fuel gage was disconnected, I connected it and quickly found out why it was disconnected. The fuse blew every time the key was turned!
I fixed the ground and replaced the sender.
HTH
Keith

LarryBud · Jan 15, 2023

The New Panel was on the unit when I bought it. I'm guessing the sending units are either not hooked up or need to be replaced.

I'm trying to figure out the easiest way to get things up and running. Looks like I'll need to find some time for detective work.

LarryBud · Jan 15, 2023

Thanks Kieth,

I'll give it a go. I'm not strong on trouble shooting electrical issues. I was told the gauges worked but.......... Buyer beware. I know I own it.

New to me 3600 - Gauge Decisions

LarryBud

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kenbob

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LarryBud

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Bern

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Keith Williams

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LarryBud

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LarryBud

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