No matter how I tilt or rotate the tank, the filler tube hangs up!!!

My fuel pump crapped out last weekend, so I'm trying to replace it. I've removed all of the suspension parts and exhaust. There doesn't seem to be a clearance issue with the rear end or axle, but with the bracket for the panhard bar and brace. I know some people have cut access holes, but I don't consider that an option. There has to be some way of getting the damed thing out!!! I am moving this coming Wed. so, I need to get the fuel pump replaced very soon! Please, HELP!!!!
Thanks.

 

Wow, I don't remember all the specifics... but I think the pass side swings down low, then toward the front of the car, while the driver's side with the filler tube stays pretty much where it is. That should get the filler at the right angle, then you can guide it out. Sorry I don't have anything more descriptive...

Dave

 

hm... so you have dropp the rear, and all the rear end parts(PHR, upper pan hard etc)?

you may have to tweak the filler neck slightly.

 

i dont think he dropped the rear J

 

I have removed the panhard and brace, shocks, springs, and LCA's. The rearend has been lowered. I can be lowered more, but it doesn't seem to be in the way. How far can I drop the rear without causing any damage? The Haynes manual states that the u-joint can be damaged if dropped to far. I removed the bracket for the brake line, so that isn't an issue.

 

If you pull down on the passenger side of the tank, this will slightly bend the filler tube. The tank will then come out easy. After the tank is back in, then use a jack and piece of wood to bend the tube back into place. Be careful bending the tube, cause if it breaks, then you will need a new tank.

 

it just takes a lot of wigling - it really helps to have another person look in throught the filler door and perhaps help you wiggle the neck through - and at least let you know if you need to maneuver up, down or what

 

it helps to have somebody guiding it from up top. and make it a two man effort.. I have don't too many of these... Now I have a access panel just incase this pump goes out.. if it does im sumping the damn tank..

 

Now you know why I chose to leave the tank bolted in, to replace my fuel pump.

 

If I can't get it out tomorrow morning, cutting an access panel may be my only option, but I'm not ready to give up yet.

RamAir95TA - How long did it take you to cut the hole, and what kind of tool did you use to make the cut? I have a dremel, but I don't think it will be able to do the job.

 

I would just cut the hole i wouldn't worry about the structure of the car if that is what bothers you. I have SFC's so i am sure my car is nice and solid so if mine goes out i am hacking the floor right out.

 

I agree with joe
its probobly sacrificing structural integrity and risking my life while donig it, but i'm lazy.

If i ever get into an accient, it will probobly be in triple didget speeds so i'll die either way.
but what a way to go out

joe
check sig

 

I just had my fuel pump replaced under my extended warranty twice in 3 days. The first one failed immediately so they had to wait till today to get another one in. They, drained the tank, dropped the rear axle and then droppe the tank. Cost for one round of it would have been $766.41 with Labor. Thanks to the warranty and good luck.

 

When I had my fuel pump replaced, the guy had to drop the rear end down as far as it would go, well after the upper control arms were taken lose. He said once the rear was down low enough, it was a piece of cake to change. He charged me $300 for the install AND the pump. The pump has a lifetime warranty. Not too bad I dont think for the price.

Brian

 

I replaced my fuel pump last summer. I bought a Haynes repair manual and everything went just like they illustrated. After dropping the rearend and removing all of the supension components I was able to remove it. It seemed like the key was to move the tank down and forward on the passenger side as far as possible. It was however very tight getting the filler neck to clear. When I reinstalled the tank I did find that I had "tweaked" the neck a little bit but I correct that with a floor jack and a section of pipe. It will test your patience. Good luck.