Draining The Ford Territory Fuel Tank: Step-By-Step Guide

how to drain ford territory fuel tank

Draining a Ford Territory fuel tank can be done in several ways. One method involves removing the skid plate, disconnecting the fuel fill tube, and then the breather tube, before removing the metal straps holding the tank and draining the fuel. Another method involves dropping the tank and draining the fuel through the fuel dump hole, which can be accessed by loosening a bolt under the gas tank. A third method involves using a hose, a rag, and an air compressor to pressurize the tank and pump the fuel out. It is important to be cautious when dealing with gasoline fumes and to ensure the tank is completely dry before reassembling it.

How to Drain a Ford Territory Fuel Tank

Characteristics Values
Step 1 Remove the skid plate held on by three bolts
Step 2 Disconnect the fuel fill tube (3-inch tube at the back of the tank)
Step 3 Remove the breather tube (next to the fill tube)
Step 4 Loosen the bolts at the end of the two metal straps holding the tank
Step 5 Place a jack under the tank to stabilise it as you lower it
Step 6 Disconnect the pump by turning on the ring at the top of the tank
Step 7 Remove the tank
Alternative Methods
Method 1 Disconnect the fuel line at the pump and operate the pump to drain the water
Method 2 Disconnect the rubber filler hose and insert a siphon into the tank
Method 3 Disconnect the hose connected to the fuel filter, place the end in a container, and turn on the ignition to pump the fuel into the container

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Removing the skid plate and disconnecting the fuel fill tube

To drain the fuel tank of your Ford Territory, you will first need to remove the skid plate. The skid plate is held in place by three bolts. Once you have removed the skid plate, you will see the fuel fill tube, which is a three-inch tube coming off the back of the tank. Disconnect this tube, and then remove the breather tube right next to it.

You will then see two metal straps holding the tank itself. There should be one bolt each on the ends you can see. Don't worry about the other ends—they are a tongue and groove type setup. Once you have one side off, the side against the frame will slip right off. Make sure you have a jack under the tank so that it doesn't drop.

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Locating the fuel dump hole and loosening the bolt

To locate the fuel dump hole, you will need to go under your car. There is a bolt under the gas tank that needs to be loosened to drain the fuel. This bolt is located directly under the gas tank on the tank itself.

Before attempting to loosen the bolt, you must first remove the skid plate, which is held in place by three bolts. Once the skid plate is removed, you will be able to access the fuel dump hole bolt. It is important to have a jack under the tank to support it and prevent it from dropping unexpectedly.

When you have located the bolt, you can begin to loosen it. Keep in mind that you don't need to remove the bolt completely, just loosen it enough to allow the fuel to drain out. Place a container or a fuel can underneath the bolt to collect the draining fuel.

Alternatively, you can use a hose to direct the fuel into a container. This method involves inserting a hose into the fuel fill tube and sealing any gaps with a rag. By creating a vacuum in the hose, you can force the fuel out of the tank and into the container. This method can be more efficient and help avoid spills.

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Using a siphon to drain the tank

To drain a Ford Territory fuel tank using a siphon, you will need a siphon hose or tube that is long enough to reach the bottom of the tank. Most cars have an anti-siphoning device in the filler tube, so you will need a small-diameter hose, such as a 1/4" O.D. poly tube, to fit through the anti-siphoning gate. You can purchase a siphon set-up from an auto parts store for less than $10.

Before starting, make sure you have a suitable container to collect the fuel. It is recommended to have two 2-5 gallon gas containers so that you can swap them out without having to stop once you begin. Place your container on the ground near the fuel tank.

To begin siphoning, feed the hose through the fuel filler tube into the tank, ensuring that you have enough hose to reach the bottom of the tank. You may need to use a tool, such as a screwdriver, to hold the trap door open while you feed the hose through. Once the hose is in place, use your finger or thumb to cover the end of the hose and fill it with gas. When the hose is full, remove your finger and place the hose into the gas container, allowing gravity to do the work.

It is important to note that this process can be time-consuming and may take several hours to drain a full tank. Additionally, do not put your mouth on the hose for any reason, as it can be dangerous and cause illness.

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Disconnecting the fuel line at the pump

Firstly, remove the skid plate held on by three bolts. Once that is done, disconnect the fuel fill tube, which is the three-inch tube coming off the back of the tank. You will also need to remove the breather tube next to the fill tube. You will then see two metal straps holding the tank. There should be one bolt each on the ends that you can see. You do not need to worry about the other ends as they are a tongue and groove type setup. Once you have one side off, the side against the frame will slip off. Ensure that you have a jack under the tank so that it does not drop.

After lowering the tank, you can disconnect the pump by turning on the ring that runs around its top. You may need to use a piece of wood and a hammer to knock it loose.

Another method to disconnect the fuel line at the pump is to use an IDS to turn on the fuel pump relay/fuel pump. You can then disconnect the fuel line near the pump/rail to drain the tank.

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Cleaning the tank with a pressure washer

To clean your Ford Territory fuel tank with a pressure washer, follow these steps:

First, remove the skid plate held on by three bolts. Next, disconnect the fuel fill tube, a three-inch tube coming off the back of the tank. Then, remove the breather tube, which is located next to the fill tube. You will now be able to see two metal straps holding the tank in place, with one bolt on each end. Remove these bolts. Place a jack under the tank for support, then lower the tank down. Once you have the tank down, disconnect the pump by turning on the ring that runs around its top. You may need to use a piece of wood and a hammer to knock it loose.

Now that the tank is disconnected, you can begin cleaning it with the pressure washer. Ensure that you clean the inside thoroughly, and pay attention to all corners and crevices of the tank. Use appropriate cleaning solutions if necessary, and be sure to rinse the tank thoroughly with water after cleaning.

Once you have finished cleaning the tank, it is important to ensure that it is completely dry before reassembling. This is a crucial step, as any remaining water can cause issues. Consider using gas line antifreeze, as it will absorb any residual water.

Finally, reattach the fuel tank and secure it with the metal straps and bolts. Ensure that all connections are tight to prevent any leaks.

Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when using a pressure washer, and always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.

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