Looks like my float finally sunk...

Do you suspect a problem with the sending unit, other than the sinking float? If not, here are some useful part numbers I clipped off a thread at slantsix.org:

Float: Ford P/N COAZ-9202-B
Strainer "sock": GM P/N 5651 705
Gasket: Chrysler P/N 6031 475
Sender grounding clip: Chrysler P/N 2258 862

My son recently bought one of the brass floats from our local Ford dealer for about $10. While you are in there, go ahead and replace the strainer.

Jerry