1. Hello guys, earlier today I attempted to drop the tank to change the fuel pump but just couldn't angle the tank out without damaging the filler neck. Cutting a hole in the hatch now seems like the course i will have to take. However, before i do that, how did you guys, who were successful in dropping the tank, do it? Did you have to remove the torque arm and drive shaft to allow enough room for the tank?

2. While moving the tank around, I noticed a line/hose coming out of evaporative emissions cannister, lying above the gas tank, that didn't appear to connect to anything. Is this line/hose some kind of vent tube? I tried looking for a loose connection but couldn't find anything where this line/hose might connect to.

Thanks in advance

 

1. Disconnect the filler tube, lower or remove your exhaust, remove the two straps holding the tank and angle it as far down as you can towards the passenger side. You should be able to squeeze in between the frame and the tank to get the entire unit unplugged and out.

I wouldn't suggest cutting the body...remember we have a unibody and even if you secure the piece you remove, you are still weakening the entire structure.

2. Yes

 

The first time I had to go into the tank was to replace the pump. I jacked up the back end and let the rear hang, removed some rear suspension components, cut off my muffler since it was rusted on and dropped the tank. I couldn't drop the tank all the way, it was very tight and I ended up having to drop the tank sideways as much as possible and reach to the top of the tank to get out the housing. I did notice there was a line just sitting there, and after a bit of research I found it's just a vent.

the second time I had to go into the tank was to fix th fuel gauge. This time I cut a nice access hatch. It made things a lot easier. I haven't noticed any more weakness in the structure. The hole was cut on a flat piece of metal, I didn't have to go through any ripples or support bars. Here's a pic of the hatch:

http://members.shaw.ca/nrfarley/pics...h/Image008.jpg
http://members.shaw.ca/nrfarley/pics...h/Image019.jpg

 

Thank you very much guys.