fuel gauge dropping to zero

[Bongoplotter]

Does anyone know what could cause the fuel gauge needle to suddenly drop to zero whilst driving along? After turning off the ignition for a minute or two, and checking around for anything obviously untoward, the ignition was turned on again, and the needle rose back to its former place and stayed there. Thanks

[Simon Jones]

Petrol or diesel? If diesel it could be a dodgy earth, but generally as there is no return spring on the needle, it will stay 'stuck' the previous position. If you haven't already done the tank/sender earth fix it would be worth doing it anyway as it is a common failure. There's a factsheet in the members area and plenty of info via the search facility.

[Bongoplotter]

Thanks, much appreciated. It's a diesel.