- 1). Lift the rear end of car and support it using jack stands. Locate the fuel tank and remove it. It is usually held in place by two metal straps attached to the frame with bolts. Support the tank evenly on a jack before removing the bolts. Lower the tank a few inches. Remove the filler neck hose; it is held in place by a clamp. Remove the fuel outlet hose and, if equipped, the inlet hose. Disconnect all electrical connectors.
- 2). Remove the fuel pump housing from the top side of the tank. It may be held in with bolts. The most common is a spinning retainer. To remove: lift the tabs up and, using a small driver, tap the tabs counterclockwise. The retainer should give about half a turn and then loosen completely. Penetrating lubricant may be needed. Save the retainer and O-ring for installation.
- 3). Flip the tank upside down over a bucket, and allow it to drain completely. Rinse the tank out with tank cleaner and new gasoline or other petroleum-based alcohol. Dispose of all the stale fuel and the rinsed-out fuel. Allow the tank to air-dry.
- 4). Remove the fuel filter and allow the lines to drain. Remove the fuel line at the engine supply port; this will allow stale fuel to drain back. Reconnect it after it has bled out. Install a new fuel filter.
- 5). Reinstall the pump and housing into the tank. It may be wise to replace the fuel pump at this time. Install the tank into the vehicle by reversing the breakdown procedure. Lower the vehicle. Fill the tank with new fuel. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to "On." Do not allow the engine to crank over. Turn key to "off" and then back to "On." This primes the fuel lines. Start the vehicle and inspect for leaks.
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