Replacing The Fuel Tank In Your Classic 1968 Camaro

If you're looking to change the fuel tank on your 1968 Camaro, you've got options. You could opt for a Tanks Inc. EFI-ready notched fuel tank, which will set you back just over $300. This tank is designed to free up space for exhaust piping and prevent fuel starvation during hard cornering. If you're handy, you could also modify your existing fuel tank to accept a 5th Gen Fuel Pump Assembly, which will improve performance and fuel pressure. Or, for a more straightforward approach, you can follow the step-by-step guide provided by GasTanks.com for installing a new GM32A gas tank. This process involves disconnecting the battery and fuel line, draining the old gas tank, unbolting the rear strap mounts, and sliding out the old tank. You will then need to prepare the new tank by applying weatherstrip cement and antisqueak strips before inserting the sending unit and retaining cam. Finally, you can lift the new tank into place, secure it with straps and bolts, and connect the filler tube and sending unit wiring.

Disconnect the battery and fuel line, then drain the old tank

Disconnecting the battery and fuel line and draining the old tank are the first steps in replacing the fuel tank on a 1968 Camaro. This is a critical step to ensure your safety and prevent any accidental fires or injuries. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this:

Park your car on level ground and engage the parking brake. Open the bonnet and locate the negative battery terminal, which is usually marked with a "-" sign. Disconnect the battery by loosening the clamp that holds the terminal in place using a wrench. Once the clamp is loose, carefully lift the terminal off the battery post. Make sure not to let it touch any metal parts of the car, as this could cause a short circuit.

Now, locate the fuel line that connects the fuel tank to the engine. It is usually a flexible hose or metal pipe near the rear of the vehicle. Place a drain pan or container underneath the fuel line to catch any spilled fuel. Loosen the clamp that holds the fuel line in place and carefully detach it from the fuel tank. Fuel may start to drain from the line, so be prepared to collect it safely. Never drain fuel into an open container or down a drain; always use an approved fuel container.

With the fuel line disconnected, you can now drain the old fuel tank. Place a drain pan or container under the tank and remove the plug or valve that allows the fuel to drain out. Be careful when handling the fuel, as it is highly flammable. Once the tank is drained, you can dispose of the old fuel safely and responsibly. Consult your local regulations for proper fuel disposal procedures.

After draining the tank, it is important to clean up any spilled fuel immediately. Use an absorbent cloth or material specifically designed for cleaning up fuel spills. Never use water to clean up a fuel spill, as this can create a fire hazard. Ensure the area is well-ventilated to allow any fuel vapours to dissipate.

By following these steps, you will have successfully disconnected the battery and fuel line and drained the old fuel tank on your 1968 Camaro. Remember always to put safety first when working with fuel systems and ensure you have the necessary skills and equipment to perform the task.

Remove the filler neck and rear strap mounts

To remove the filler neck and rear strap mounts of a 1968 Camaro, follow these steps:

First, disconnect the battery. This is an important safety precaution when working on any electrical or fuel system in a car. Next, disconnect the fuel line and completely drain the old gas tank and fuel line into a fuel container. Make sure to do this in a well-ventilated area, with no open flames or ignition sources present.

Now, you can disconnect the filler neck from behind the license plate mount. Then, unbolt the rear strap mounts and drop the tank, sliding it out the rear of the car. Remove and discard the old straps.

If you need to replace the fuel line, do so now. A steel or stainless steel fuel line can be purchased and installed at this stage.

These steps will allow you to safely remove the filler neck and rear strap mounts, preparing you for the next stages of changing the fuel tank on your 1968 Camaro.

Prepare the new tank by applying weatherstrip cement and antisqueak strips

To prepare the new tank for your 1968 Camaro, you will need to apply weatherstrip cement and antisqueak strips. This will help to ensure a secure and safe fit for your new fuel tank. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Gather the necessary materials: weatherstrip cement (we recommend 3M Super Weatherstrip Adhesive 08001 in yellow or 08008 in black) and antisqueak strips.
• Remove the new tank from its packaging and unwrap it.
• Apply the weatherstrip cement to the tank according to the instructions on the product.
• Take the antisqueak strips and apply them to the tank, pressing them firmly into place.

By following these steps, you will have successfully prepared the new tank by applying weatherstrip cement and antisqueak strips. You can now continue with the next steps of the fuel tank installation process for your 1968 Camaro.

Insert the sending unit, retaining cam, and lock ring

To insert the sending unit, retaining cam, and lock ring, follow these steps:

First, insert the GasTanks.com sending unit into the hole with the fuel line facing the front passenger side corner of the tank. Next, insert the retaining cam (lock ring), part 20-14, which comes with each Quanta Products GasTanks.com tank, into the retaining groove. Use the retaining cam (lock ring) tool (20-LRW), pressing down and turning the lock ring.

The sending unit wire is then stretched across the top of the tank and secured in place with a wide piece of black tape to ensure it does not get pinched during installation, which could result in wire chafing.

Secure the sending unit wire and insert the new tank

To secure the sending unit wire and insert the new tank, follow these steps:

Firstly, you will need to stretch the sending unit wire across the top of the tank and secure it in place. Use a wide piece of black tape to secure the wire, ensuring it does not get pinched during installation. This will prevent the wire from chafing.

Next, insert the new tank. The tank should be lifted into place, taking care not to pinch the sending unit wire. Once the tank is in position, swing the straps around and secure them using the factory carriage bolts and lock nuts. The tank straps should be hooked-end first into the slot in the floor-pan behind the rear axle.

Finally, tighten the bolts and nuts to secure the tank in place.

Your new tank is now installed and ready for the next steps in the fuel tank installation process.

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