Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Instrument Panel - Standard: Operation
Instrument Panel
When ignition switch is in "RUN", "BULB TEST", or "START" positions, voltage is available through "GAGES" fuse for fuel gauge, temperature gauge, voltmeter, tachometer, and indicators.
Fuel Gauge
Pointer of fuel gauge is moved by the magnetic field of 2 coils. When tank is low, resistance of the sender is low. A large flow of current passes through the empty coil and gauge sender resistor. This moves pointer toward "E" on the scale. When tank is full, sender resistance is high. More current flows through full coil, moving pointer toward "F" on the scale.
Oil Indicator
When engine is started, oil pressure is below 4 psi (0.3 kg/cm2 ), oil pressure switch is closed and oil indicator goes on momentarily as a bulb test. Oil indicator goes off as soon as oil pressure rises above 4 psi (0.3 kg/cm2 ) and oil pressure switch opens.
Rear Compartment Ajar Indicator
With ignition switch in "RUN", "BULB TEST", or "START" positions, voltage is applied through "GAGES" fuse to "TAILGATE AJAR" indicator. When tailgate is unlatched, switch closes. Indicator is grounded and lights.
Temperature Gauge
The coolant temperature gauge has 2 electro-magnetic coils that pull pointer in opposite directions to balance gauge. Voltage is applied to "hot" magnetic field coil. The "cold" coil connects directly to ground. The coolant temperature sending unit controls gauge position by changing amount of voltage applied through "hot" coil.
Temperature Indicator
The temperature indicator bulb is tested in "BULB TEST" or "START" positions through ignition switch. Temperature indicator comes on with ignition switch in "RUN" position when engine coolant temperature is above 258°F (126°C). Coolant temperature switch closes circuit and the indicator light comes on.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.