Jumpy gauges

[sierraspider]

In the grand scheme of things not a huge deal, but yesterday my temp and fuel gauges started acting jiggy, with the needles acting kind of nervous. When I give it some gas, they steady up. I'm thinking bad ground, but as always if someone has a tip it's always useful.

Thanks

[DieselSpider]

Is your battery taking a high charge or idle a set a tad low? Gauges do act funny when the alternator is not being turned fast enough to maintain at least 12.5 volts or when the battery is about to give up the ghost.

Aside from that yes bad grounds on the dash or possibly engine can contribute to this too.

[AriK]

Don't forget battery to battery box. Outta sight outta mind back there in the trunk.

[phaetn]

Also, don't forget to check the fuse is held solidly in place. My gauges were getting progressively wonkier, then one day starting cutting out completely when I used a turn signal. Pulled over when there was no one behind me because I suspected a fuse, which also means brake lights not working.

Turns out the fuse was starting to deteriorate at the head and made for a slightly dubious electrical connection.

All fixed now. Probably not the issue in your case but in my '74 the tach, fuel, and temp gauges are all on the same fuse.

Cheers,
phaetn

[vandor]

My gauges have been a lot happier since I added a second ground that goes directly to the gauges.