Replacing The Fuel Tank On A 6Hp Briggs And Stratton Engine

If you're looking to replace the fuel tank on your 6hp Briggs and Stratton engine, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, it's important to only use replacement parts that are recommended by the engine manufacturer to ensure a secure fit. You can find these parts listed in your engine manual or by consulting a Briggs and Stratton dealer. When it comes to actually changing the fuel tank, you'll first need to drain the existing tank and remove the fuel line and any other relevant parts. It's also crucial that you take appropriate safety precautions when working with fuel, as it is extremely flammable and explosive.

Fuel tank replacement options

If you are replacing a fuel tank, it is important to only use parts recommended by the engine manufacturer. These parts will attach securely to your engine in the space provided. You can find the service part numbers for the fuel tank in the small engine manual.

Fuel tanks are designed to keep your engine's fuel clean, vented, and secure. If you spot debris in the gas tank or leaking gasoline, it is time for fuel tank maintenance. Never attempt to repair a damaged tank as it poses a risk of leakage, fire, or fuel contamination.

Older model fuel tanks are designed to use a vented gas cap to prevent a vacuum or pressure from forming in the fuel system, while more modern fuel tanks will have either a charcoal filter or charcoal venting system. If fuel is leaking from the cap, a properly fitted replacement cap can solve the problem.

Fuel tanks must be constructed of a non-corrosive material or coated with a corrosion-resistant layer to protect against the damaging effects of water, alcohol, and salt. If the tank is corroded or damaged, it should be replaced.

You can find fuel tanks and replacement parts for Briggs and Stratton 6hp engines on Amazon.com.

How to clean a fuel tank

To clean a fuel tank on a Briggs and Stratton 6hp engine, you will need to first locate the fuel filter. This will be either inside the fuel tank or fitted into the fuel line between the tank and the fuel pump.

If the filter is installed inside the tank, you will need to drain the tank before removing the filter for inspection or replacement. Shut the fuel valve, if your tank has one. If not, clamp the gas line with a fuel line clamp. Do not pinch the fuel line as this could cause damage.

If the filter is installed in the fuel line, remove the metal clips on each side of the filter with needle-nose pliers, and then slide the filter out of the line. Shake the filter over a clean cloth to remove any fuel, and then wipe away any residue from the outside.

Check for debris clogging the mesh screen, or the inside of the casing. If there is debris, replace the old filter with a new one. When replacing the filter, reconnect the metal clips on both sides, and ensure the filter is installed according to the direction of the flow arrow.

Once the filter is secure, remove the clamp on the fuel line or reopen the fuel valve. Check for leaks and do not operate the machine if any are found.

If your fuel tank is corroded or damaged, it should be replaced with a new one. Fuel tanks must be made of non-corrosive material or coated with a corrosion-resistant layer to protect against water, alcohol, and salt.

Locating the fuel filter

The fuel filter will be located either inside the fuel tank or fitted into the fuel line between the tank and the fuel pump. Some fuel tanks have internal, non-serviceable fuel filters. If you are not able to locate the fuel filter easily, it may be an in-tank design.

If you are unsure of where your fuel filter is located, refer to your Briggs & Stratton Engine Operator's manual to determine the location. This manual will also provide important safety information and step-by-step guidance on how to change the fuel filter.

It is important to note that fuel filter replacement should be performed in a safe area, free from any open flames or fire sources. Safety eyewear is also recommended to protect your eyes from liquid fuel or fuel vapors.

Fuel hose removal and re-installation

Fuel Hose Removal

• Run the engine until it stops due to a lack of fuel.
• Wait for the engine to cool down before performing any maintenance.
• Using standard pliers, squeeze the tabs on the hose clamps and slide them away from the hose ends.
• Remove the hose from the fittings.
• Be cautious of residual fuel in the hose. Keep the old hose to use as a measurement for the new hose.
• Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately.

Fuel Hose Re-installation

• Trim the replacement hose to the same length as the old hose.
• Ensure the hose is clear of any dirt or particles before installing.
• Install new clamps onto each end of the hose.
• Install the new hose over the fittings and secure it with the clamps.
• Upon first use, check for leaks.
• If fuel is leaking, stop the engine, and re-secure the hose and clamp. Consult an Authorized Service Dealer if needed.

Please note that gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive, so always exercise caution when performing any maintenance involving fuel.

Fuel filter replacement

To replace the fuel filter on a 6hp Briggs and Stratton engine, you will first need to locate the fuel filter. The fuel filter will be located either inside the fuel tank or fitted into the fuel line between the tank and the fuel pump. Some fuel tanks have internal, non-serviceable fuel filters. If you are unsure of where your fuel filter is located, refer to your Briggs & Stratton Engine Operator's manual.

Once you have located the fuel filter, follow these steps:

• Make sure you are in a safe area with no open flame or fire source. Wear safety eyewear to protect your eyes from liquid fuel or fuel vapors. Have a dry cloth handy to hold the filter and catch any dripping fuel.
• If the filter is installed inside the tank, you will need to drain the tank before removing the filter. Shut the fuel valve, if your tank has one. It may be located at the base of the fuel tank, where the gas line is attached. If your tank is not equipped with a valve, clamp the gas line with a fuel line clamp. Do not pinch the fuel line as this could cause damage.
• If your filter is installed in the fuel line, remove the metal clips on each side of the filter using needle-nose pliers, and slide the filter out of the fuel line.
• Shake the filter over a clean cloth to remove any remaining fuel, then use the cloth to wipe away any residue from the outside of the filter.
• Inspect the filter for debris. Keep the filter at a safe distance from your face and look through one end. You should be able to see light shining through clearly from the other side (this method won't work for all Briggs and Stratton fuel filters). If you see debris clogging the mesh screen, pleated paper, or the inside of the casing, replace the old filter with a new one.
• When installing the new filter, ensure that the direction of the flow arrow on the filter is correct. Reconnect the metal clips on both sides of the filter.
• Remove the clamp on the fuel line or reopen the fuel valve.
• Check for leaks. Do not operate the unit if any leaks are found.

It is recommended to change the fuel filter annually as part of your engine's maintenance routine.

Frequently asked questions