Your fuel gauge sending unit only varies the ground. The hot lead is at the gauge. Could you have the gauge wires reversed on the posts be hind the gauge? Your directions are correct. The lead from the gauge to the sending unit is attached to the center post of the sending unit. Buzz your wires at the gauge. One should have 6v when he key is turned on. The other should show no volts. That is the wire that goes to the sending unit.
Hope that didn't muddy the waters.
Mark


1951 Chevy 3100
Some days you get the bear. Some days the bear gets you.