Description & Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Do not modify system configuration or components. Do not replace components with parts not specifically designed for use with natural gas. Natural gas components and gasoline fuel components are not interchangeable. Use of improper parts or materials could result in fire, personal injury or engine damage.

NOTE: This article concerns unique features of natural gas fuel indication system. For instrument cluster functions and diagnostics not covered in this article, see ANALOG INSTRUMENT PANELS - F150 PICKUP - GASOLINE article.

Natural gas fuel indication system consists of Natural Gas Vehicle Module (NGVM), fuel gauge, fuel tank pressure sensor, tank temperature sensor and related circuitry. NGVM features injector drivers and fuel gauge driver. NGVM is able to perform self-diagnostics on natural gas system. NGVM Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) may be retrieved with New Generation Star (NGS) tester, or equivalent scan tool. Instrument cluster is Hybrid Electronic Cluster (HEC) with self-diagnostic capability. HEC DTCs may be displayed on HEC or retrieved with NGS tester.

Fuel tank pressure sensor sends a voltage signal to HEC that is proportional to pressure in tank. Fuel tank pressure sensor is located in the rear in-bed fuel tank solenoid valve and can range from 50-4000 psi (345-27,580 kPa). Fuel tank temperature sensor is also located in the rear in-bed fuel tank solenoid valve. Fuel tank temperature sensor sends a voltage signal to HEC. When temperature increases in fuel tank, resistance at fuel temperature sensor decreases. Pressure and temperature values are used to determine amount of fuel in tanks.