Fuel Tank Switch--1970 Maserati Ghibli | FerrariChat
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Fuel Tank Switch--1970 Maserati Ghibli

Discussion in 'Maserati' started by Frank_ODonnell, Nov 5, 2024.

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  1. Frank_ODonnell

    Frank_ODonnell Rookie

    Jul 8, 2023
    44
    The Villages, Florida
    Full Name:
    Francis X. ODonnell
    #1 Frank_ODonnell, Nov 5, 2024
    After taking delivery of my Ghibli in September of 2023, I have finally been able to drive it around town reliably. I am now addressing the issue of being able to draw fuel only from the driver's side tank.

    My passenger-side fuel tank has never provided gas, regardless of the position of the switch. All fuel hoses in the rear have been replaced and both pumps are new and operating. In fact, BOTH pumps operate whenever the ignition is switched on. The switch moves sideways without any feel of a "click".

    With the battery disconnected, I decided to loosen the collar nut on the fuel switch in the dash just to see if I wobbled it a bit, I might get the switch to work. There was no change in operation, so I re-tightened the nut on the switch. When I went to start the car immediately after, the fuel pumps don't come on when the ignition key is turned. I checked the wiring diagram and looked at Fuse 11 (8amps) and it is fine. I will remove the rear panel and check for power at the pumps next, but wanted to post this here first, in case anyone has experienced this problem before.

    Secondly, if I have to get to the fuel switch in the dash, what is the easiest route? Left side or right side of the center console, or is it possible to access the switches and gauges by removing the top dash pad?

    Thank you in advance and for reading my post.
    Frank from Florida
     
  2. thecarnut

    thecarnut F1 Rookie
    Rossa Subscribed

    Apr 22, 2006
    3,198
    Atlanta
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    The Car Nut
    #2 thecarnut, Nov 5, 2024
    If I recall your toggle switches are towards the top of the dash. This was only done for a few months in 1969. The best, and possibly the only, way to access these is to remove the dash cover. On a Ghibli this is not too difficult as it is only held by four nuts. Two on the sides and two on either side of the center console. Use a 10mm socket to remove the nuts. You will also have to unplug the fresh air hoses and a couple of electric wires for the dash light. This photo shows you the location of the four nuts. You will have fun laying under the dash, on your back, with your feet on the seat.

    Ivan
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  3. Frank_ODonnell

    Frank_ODonnell Rookie

    Jul 8, 2023
    44
    The Villages, Florida
    Full Name:
    Francis X. ODonnell
    #3 Frank_ODonnell, Nov 6, 2024
    Ivan:
    Cover off, switch exposed. No broken or disconnected wires. No power at either fuel pump with ignition on. Should I feel a "click" when this switch is changed?
    Frank
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  4. thecarnut

    thecarnut F1 Rookie
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    Apr 22, 2006
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    The Car Nut
    #4 thecarnut, Nov 6, 2024
    Yes, like your other switches. Use a multimeter to check power in and out of the switch. Sounds like you have a bad switch.
    Ivan
     
  5. red27

    red27 Formula Junior

    Sep 7, 2010
    923
    London UK
    Full Name:
    Mark Oliver
    #5 red27, Nov 7, 2024
    Hi Frank. It is possible to disassemble that switch. I did it last year. I believe it is the one with 6 terminals. I have not seen a replacement available even
    Without the ‘coke bottle’ actuator. here’s what is inside. Image Unavailable, Please Login

    I made a small video even. I can put it on Dropbox tomorrow if you’re interested.

    Best regards. Mark
     
  6. Frank_ODonnell

    Frank_ODonnell Rookie

    Jul 8, 2023
    44
    The Villages, Florida
    Full Name:
    Francis X. ODonnell
    #6 Frank_ODonnell, Nov 7, 2024
    Mark:
    Yes, please post the video. Which part are you referring to as the 'coke bottle' actuator? Were you able to get the switch to work correctly? If yes, what part was not connecting?
    Frank
     
  7. red27

    red27 Formula Junior

    Sep 7, 2010
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    London UK
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    Mark Oliver
    #7 red27, Nov 8, 2024
  8. red27

    red27 Formula Junior

    Sep 7, 2010
    923
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    Mark Oliver
    #8 red27, Nov 8, 2024
    The actual switch you move with your fingers is shaped like a bottle on these early Ghiblis. Other more common lucas switches on Jaguars etc were flat like beaver tails. you can swap the 2 by punching out the small roll pin near the pivot point.
    My switch was just worn and had old grease in there. a good clean and some tweaking of the small brass pieces got it working again.
     
  9. Frank_ODonnell

    Frank_ODonnell Rookie

    Jul 8, 2023
    44
    The Villages, Florida
    Full Name:
    Francis X. ODonnell
    #9 Frank_ODonnell, Nov 8, 2024
    Ivan, Mark and Mike:
    3:00 am and just finished repairing and re-installing the switch. Both pumps are working fine. The spring assembly was loose inside the switch and it took me a while to figure out how the it anchored to the bar and then to the lever. Thanks to everyone for their help. It is AMAZING how one tiny spring can keep an automobile from functioning.
    Frank O'Donnell
     
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  10. red27

    red27 Formula Junior

    Sep 7, 2010
    923
    London UK
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    Mark Oliver
    #10 red27, Nov 8, 2024
    Frank, you are a dedicated soul!!!
    10/10
    Glad you found the culprit and happy driving.
    now go and get some sleep

    M
     
  11. Frank_ODonnell

    Frank_ODonnell Rookie

    Jul 8, 2023
    44
    The Villages, Florida
    Full Name:
    Francis X. ODonnell
    #11 Frank_ODonnell, May 15, 2025 at 2:35 PM
    Update:
    My repaired switch is working fine, but I was able to purchase a new switch from MIE as a backup. Thanks again guys for responding to my questions.
    Frank
     

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