Yeah, I have a Cirrus too...

I have a 97 Chrysler Cirrus 2.5 V-6 with about 108000 miles on it. I'm not exactly a car buff but this is the 3rd car I've ever owned and so far it's the best one out of the 3.

I only have 2 minor problems right now. I need to change the spark plugs. EAK!!! I bought the plugs and wire set already, but I have a lot of work ahead of me I guess. My other problem is in the gas tank. When I reach 1/4 tank, the car quits working. (This is consistant mind you) I've heard just about every possible reason for this problem but the one that makes the most sense is the fuel sending unit. I'm told I have to replace the entire gas tank to get the new sending unit in there. (Do these people want all my money or could this be true?) I think I need a second opinion. but either way, if I'm gonna replace the sending unit, I might as well replace the fuel pump too which means the tank has to come out anyways... But other than that, I baby the hell out of this car and it treats me real good in return!!!!

At first, I wounld have suggested maybe the fuel pump... But I don't know what the fuel sending unit does. Can you explain? My friend has almost the same problem, but doesn't have enough money to get it diagnosed.

First, My Disclamer: I'M NOT A MECHANIC, DON'T QUOTE ME EVER EVER EVER!!!

Ok....

I've done some reading. The fuel (SENDER) unit seems to be a generic term for the float, filter (or strainer) and pump assembly located inside your gas tank...(in some cases, the pump is external and on some cars there are two pumps-like some Hondas) I possibly have either a dirty strainer that isn't getting all the gas out of the tank, or a defective float that isn't dropping down all the way to the bottom of the tank when gas is drained through normal car usage... Please keep in mind, I DON'T know exactly what's in my gas tank. I can't find any pictures or cross sections of my gas tank either. This is just what I'm gathering from what is happening to the car when I reach 1/4 tank. If my fuel pump wasn't working, then wouldn't the car NEVER work???? I'm gonna grab a Chilton and do some more reading I think.

May be a bit helpful:

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-gauge1.htm
http://www.trustmymechanic.com/parts_gallery/fuel_sending_unit.htm

Yup, just need the fuel pump. Includes the float, strainer and all the other bells and whistles in one unit. I didn't know all that stuff came on one assembly. I posted a pic of the fuel pump in my gallery. woo friggin hoo.. LOL I'll have to find a pic of my Cirrus to toss in there.

the sending unit is faulty OR the float is"nt dropping far enough. Had a van once with a rectangular float. The float was getting stuck on the side of the tank making the gauge read 1/4 tank off.