MeterMatch Fuel Gauge Interface Module From Tanks Inc.

Tanks Inc. offers a solution for the mix and match gauges and sending unit calibration problem. We’ve all seen the issues when parts from different companies are mixed and matched in a project build. Sometimes the builder uses what parts are on hand, and sometimes parts are ordered based on budget or discount sales. However it happens, you could end up with a fuel sender that doesn’t work properly with the fuel gauge in the instrument cluster. Sometimes they just don’t read properly and there is no easy way to calibrate the quantity.

Tanks Inc. has a nifty gadget that you didn’t know you needed until a problem arises. The truth is, if you want your analog gauge to be more accurate, you need the MeterMatch module now.

What The MeterMatch Module Does

Basically, this module will allow you to use your stock sender with virtually all common analog fuel gauges or visa-versa.  You don’t need to drop your tank to change or customize your sender or re-calibrate your fuel gauge. We all know what a PITA that situation can be. With this simple device from Tanks Inc., you can ensure your gauges are accurately reading your fuel sender.

The module can be used with many gauges that have resistive senders – such as common fuel, oil pressure, and temperature gauges.  It also allows you to have a low and/or high set points that can trigger a blinking LED indicator to alert if the gauge exceeds normal values.

Fuel level gauges are designed to work with specific ohm range fuel senders. If you’ve ever tried to order one to replace a bad sender, you’ve already figured out that automobile and gauge manufacturers use different ohm ranges to operate their own proprietary gauges. The problems begin when you try to update your vehicle with new gauges, a new gas tank, or a new fuel sender.

The MeterMatch Module interfaces between the fuel sender and the gauge to correct ohm mismatch and erratic movement due to fuel sloshing.

In this graphic, the green lines would be connected together prior to installation. After installation, the MeterMatch interrupts that signal to process it and make corrections. Note that the wire terminals are physically not arranged in this same order – it is shown this way for clarity.

How It Works

The MeterMatch module is wired between your sender unit and the fuel gauge. It reads the resistance of the sender, then based on the calibration values, works as an electronic resistor to drive your gauge to the desired reading. It treats the input and output entirely separately, so it doesn’t care if the input to the gauge is scaled differently than the sender, or even if the sender signal is reversed – it can correct for that.

Features And Benefits

  • User can calibrate a custom ohm range (between 0-3,000 ohms)
  • The gauge can be calibrated at empty, full, and two other points ensuring accurate readings even with odd shaped gas tanks
  • The interface is compatible with nearly any short sweep fuel gauge and fuel sender combination
  • Easy screw terminal wire connections
  • Compact size, 2.4″ x 1.85″ x 0.93″
  • Simple rotary knob and push-button calibration
  • Programmable voltage correction
  • Programmable low (or high) alarm (works with a LED indicator)
  • Programmable averaging can be turned on or off to help minimize needle bouncing
  • Can operate on 7 Volts DC through 24 Volts DC
  • Made in the USA

Calibration

Calibrating the MeterMatch module is simple. You set the sender to a known value. Typically you would fill the gas tank then set the MeterMatch to program mode. Using the up/down buttons, make the gauge read what you want for the gauge value. Hit the save button and the module remembers that value. You will need to do the same for the other end of the range and the calibration is complete.

The gauge will read properly from calibration points near each end of the range for most applications, but you can be more sophisticated if you wish. When you have an odd-shaped tank that is larger at the bottom and smaller at the top, it won’t read properly throughout the range. MeterMatch provides two additional calibration points between the endpoints. In this example, you could have an additional calibration point where the tank changes size. You could choose to add additional calibration points (for example at 30-percent and 70-percent) and the accuracy will be drastically improved.

The calibration data inside MeterMatch is stored internally in non-volatile memory that is maintained, even when power is removed.

For more information on the MeterMatch Fuel Gauge Interface Module or other components from Tanks Inc., visit them online at www.tanksinc.com.

Article Sources

About the author

Bobby Kimbrough

Bobby grew up in the heart of Illinois, becoming an avid dirt track race fan which has developed into a life long passion. Taking a break from the Midwest dirt tracks to fight evil doers in the world, he completed a full 21 year career in the Marine Corps.
Read My Articles

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