Couple questions re 60 Pontiac (stock generator & V regulator)
 

I had the battery disconnected on my 60 Pontiac. I wanted to check the action of my gas gauge, so I hooked up the battery and proceeded to polarize the voltage regulator. Usually I get a spark when I touch the jumper lead. Now I'm getting nothing. Any thoughts relative to the V regulator?

Second question regarding the gas gauge function. Left the battery hooked up and proceeded to check the gas gauge response relative to the ignition switch position. With the ignition switch off the gauge read about 5/8 of a tank, which should be fairly close. Then turned the ignition switch to the ON position, not start. Gas gauge reading then dropped to a little less than 1/4 full. Is this what I should expect in terms of gauge response? I did not actually start the car.

Here's a pic from 1961 Service Manual: (no 60 info with me)


http://forums.maxperformanceinc.com/...1&d=1623934279




It should be just a momentary touch.
Maybe it sparked but just not much?


On the gas gauge not much I know or can say.
If it showed full all the time or didn't move at all it would be something.
Possibly the rheostat in tank is sticking. With car moving it would find its position?


:confused:

Thanks for the input. I found part of my answer in the service manual of all places (LOL)! For the gas gauge, the gauge indicates the actual amount of fuel in the tank when the ignition switch is in the ACCESSORY or ON positions. When the ignition switch is in the OFF or START positions, the needle may come to rest in any position.