I have a 1991 townace super extra with 2ct engine. Does anyone know the reason for the low fuel light illuminating when there is half a tank of fuel on board. I noticed the light whilst parked waiting for some traffic lights to change, it was not at full brightness but is a distraction.

- (#7339) Andy B, 23 Feb 03

This lamp should only illuminate when the fuel level is down to approx 10 litres. If you are sure that the tank is half full,and the light still comes on, then I should think the reason is a malfunction of the float/sender device in the tank. One thing you don't want, with a diesel, is to run out of fuel and draw air into the fuel feed system. No great problem but, an inconvenience

- (#7340) John Davis, 24 Feb 03

Thanks for that. I travelled to work this morning with no warning light, I am assuming that the problem may have been caused by dampness, since my earlier journey was a very wet one.

- (#7341) Andy B, 24 Feb 03

the sensor for the warning light is a thermistor. The current for the light passes through it, causing it to heat up. The cold fuel around it keeps it from heating. No fuel, it heats up, the resistance decreases, thus the light comes on.
You should check the wiring going to the tank for damage...

- (#7342) david miller, 24 Feb 03

Whilst on about this particular light, should it come on when you first turn on the ignition like other warning lights? I've never seen mine lit and had the needle close to the empty mark but as John said, you don't want to be running dry so I've never pushed my luck. As such I don't know if it works or not.

- (#7427) Dave B, 25 Feb 03

Same with mine, light never came on, I had even got as far as searching Ace Answers for advice on changing the bulb, when lo and behold it started flashing, 'cos I had forgotten to fill up.

- (#7428) Tom Lister, 26 Feb 03