Why is my gear meter not counting?

Why is my gear meter not counting?

Troubleshooting: Why is my gear meter not counting?

If you have flow but the tablet isn't registering any volume, the most likely cause is that the gears are physically stalled or were reassembled incorrectly. Follow these steps in order to diagnose the issue.


Step 1: Verify System Flow

Before opening the meter, ensure the problem isn't a blockage elsewhere in the line.

  • Check Filters: Ensure the inline strainers are clean.

  • Check Valves: Verify that all necessary valves (Main, Product, and Throttling valves) are fully open.

  • Pump Performance: Ensure the pump is actually moving fluid and not just cavitating.


Step 2: Check for Gear Obstructions

If fluid is moving but the meter stays at zero, debris may be wedged between the gear teeth.

  1. Follow the
    to open the housing.

  2. Inspect for small stones, plastic shavings from new tanks, or dried chemical "scabs" that may be jamming the gears.

  3. Clean the gears and the housing cavity thoroughly.


Step 3: Verify Gear Orientation

If you recently serviced the meter, the gears may be installed incorrectly. Gear meters rely on magnetic sensors; if the magnets aren't facing the sensor, the meter will never count.

  • Magnets Facing OUT: Both gears have two small circular magnets. These MUST face outward (toward the faceplate/sensor). If they are "upside down," the sensor cannot "see" them spinning.

  • The "T" Shape: Ensure the gears are meshed in the proper "T" orientation.

  • The Spin Test: Before closing the housing, use your finger to spin the gears. They should spin freely with very little force. If they bind, they will not spin under normal flow.


Step 4: Reassembly Caution

When putting the faceplate back on:

  1. Light & Firm: Tighten the 6 bolts in a star pattern.

  2. No Torque Spec: There is no specific torque spec, but the goal is to let the O-ring do the sealing.

  3. Do Not Overtighten: These are PPS plastic meters.
    Overtightening will strip the plastic threads or crack the housing.


Still not counting?

If the gears are spinning freely and magnets are facing out, but you still have no reading, you may have a failed Hall Effect Sensor or a break in the CAN Bus wiring.

  • Test: Swap the sensor cable with a known working meter nearby to see if the problem follows the cable or stays with the meter.