Electric fuel gauge/sending unit compatibility question.

I have an Auto Meter 2518 fuel level gauge in our '47 Mercury. It's their "Ford" gauge but needs a '65 or later sender. It is rated at 16 ohms empty/158 ohms full.

The car has a new fuel tank with a Bob Drake sender, p/n 99A-9275. It is intended for use with stock Ford gauges and, according to Bob Drake's tech guy, it is rated at 14-18 ohms empty/88-94 ohms full.

Is there any way to make these two different parts speak the same language?

I can't use a later Ford sender because the mounting flange on the Bob Drake tank is totally different, same with the Auto Meter sender.

 

No. I can't speak on Autometer's or Drake's senders, or at least I shouldn't, but if you want to keep that gauge you'll have to find a way for the sender to work. There are some oddball ohm ranges for Smiths gauges but I don't stock any in the shop to give you a part number/specifications. What's the tank scenario? 6-screw original? They make flange adaptations.

 

Yes, six screw.

I've seen one of those adapters, they're pretty expensive for what they are so I'd like to avoid that if I can.

 

I don't think you'll find a cheaper solution, especially since you already own the gauge.