Fuel Tank Swap

[Matt Bachand]

Over the weekend swapping my primary fuel tank. (she leaks over 1/2 tank), must be at the seam.


62" Long 34 Gallon.

I bought a sender unit and straps also just in case, can return if not used.

Any tips/suggestions?

While I'm at it, i'm also replacing the Aux Transfer Lift Pump with the still working carter Lift Pump I had before I installed an AC Delco unit on primary circuit.

Tank, straps, Sender, cleaner, rags, PowerService all came to $300 at Napa. I will return the sender (80) and Straps (40) if I don't need.

 

[mfgguru]

Make sure the tank is empty, I know it's a no brainer, but it put me in a bad spot. Be sure to support the tank with some rope or wire or whatever while you loosen the straps. This will prevent your steel FSU lines from kinking until you have enough room to undo them. That's what happened to me, my supports slipped off the end of the tank and kinked her good.:mad2: Had to get a new FSU. Not a horrible, job, but I used a hoist, don't know if the ground would be easier or not. Not a far for the tank to fall maybe):h. If you use the old FSU, be sure to replace or clean out the snotty sock. Good luck Matt.:smile5:

 

[Matt Bachand]

I have some 2x6 blocks/ramps that raises the front about 6-8 " ... Besides that its on the back mechanic here... Good advice about securing it up, its just about empty. I think i'm in good shape here.

Any clamps needed?

 

[mfgguru]

You should be able to reuse the breather and filler hose clamps again. That is it for clamps, the fsu has threaded fittings, I think. The filler hose and breather hose can be a bit difficult. Get between rubber and fitting with a flat screwdriver and loosen them up, should come off easily after that.

 

[bk95td]

Start soaking all threads on bolts and fittings with pb blaster ahead of time. Gently pop fuel lines out of plastic clips on frame before lowering tank. You will have to bend the straps to get the tank out. If it's a new tank i'd clean the oil off it and coat it with undercoating.

 

[Detroit Dan]

I did mine with a floor jack. balanced it with one hand and let the jack down with the other. Wasn't particularly difficult, except I couldn't get the plastic shield lined up on install. I think it is wrong the way the top of the shield is outside the lip at the seam, will let more salt and water inside the shield. But I could not get it in place and eventually gave up because it got dark.