Draining The Mitsubishi Triton Fuel Tank: Step-By-Step Guide

how to drain fuel tank mitsubishi triton

The Mitsubishi Triton has been a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile light commercial vehicle since 1986. With its recent updates, the Triton now rivals other top-tier utes in terms of power and performance. However, like all vehicles, the Triton occasionally requires maintenance, and one common task is draining the fuel tank. This can be done in several ways, depending on the model year and type of Triton you have. This guide will outline the steps to drain the fuel tank of a Mitsubishi Triton, ensuring you can get back on the road safely and efficiently.

How to Drain a Mitsubishi Triton Fuel Tank

Characteristics Values
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 litres
Fuel Consumption (GLX version) 8.6L / 100km
Engine 2.4 litre MIVEC turbo diesel
Power 133 kW at 3500rpm
Peak Torque 430 Nm at 2500 rpm
Engine Block Material Lightweight aluminium
Towing Capacity (double cab) 3.1 tonnes
Braked Towing Capacity 3100kg
Gross Combined Mass 5.885 tonnes
Transmission Manual and automatic available
Manual Transmission Features 6-speed gearbox, short-throw lever, light-action clutch
Automatic Transmission Features 6-speed, improved fuel economy, Manual Shift Mode
Fuel Drain Method Remove tank, no drain plugs or bolts

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Check for a drain bolt at the bottom of the tank

When it comes to draining your Mitsubishi Triton's fuel tank, one of the first things to check is whether there is a drain bolt at the bottom of the tank. This is a common feature on many vehicles, allowing for easy drainage of fluids. However, it is important to note that not all models of the Mitsubishi Triton may have this drain bolt.

To check for the presence of a drain bolt, you will need to get underneath the vehicle and locate the fuel tank. This is usually positioned towards the rear of the vehicle, underneath the passenger compartment or cargo area. Once you have located the fuel tank, carefully inspect the bottom of the tank. Look for a small bolt or plug, typically made of metal, which can be removed to drain the fluid.

If your Mitsubishi Triton does have a drain bolt, this will be the easiest and most straightforward method to drain the fuel tank. Simply place a suitable container underneath the bolt to catch the drained fuel, then remove the bolt using the appropriate tool. Be sure to have enough containers to store the drained fuel, as it can be hazardous to the environment and should be disposed of properly.

However, according to some sources, certain models of the Mitsubishi Triton, such as the 2013 version, may not have a drain bolt at the bottom of the tank. In such cases, alternative methods must be employed to drain the fuel tank, such as removing the tank entirely or using a siphon tube to extract the fuel through the filler neck.

Therefore, it is important to first check for the presence of a drain bolt at the bottom of your Mitsubishi Triton's fuel tank. This will help determine the most appropriate method for draining the tank and ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment ready before beginning the task. Remember to exercise caution when working with fuel, and always refer to a qualified mechanic or specialist if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.

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If there is no drain bolt, remove the tank

If your Mitsubishi Triton does not have a drain bolt, you will need to remove the tank to drain the fuel. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

First, do not start your engine if you have put the wrong fuel in your Mitsubishi Triton. Trying to get a hose through the tank filler will not work due to the rollover safety valve at the bottom of the tube.

If your Mitsubishi Triton is a petrol model, you can open up the feed hose coming from the tank. With the fuel pump relay removed and jumped, this will activate the pump so you can pump out the fuel into a fuel can. Make sure you have enough cans to store the fuel, depending on how much fuel you have.

If your Mitsubishi Triton is a diesel model, you can try to get a siphon tube in the fill neck to pump out the fuel. These are thin tubes that can get past the roll-over valve, but it will take some time to drain the tank completely.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully drain the fuel tank of your Mitsubishi Triton, even if it does not have a drain bolt.

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For petrol models, open the feed hose and remove the fuel pump relay

If you have a petrol Mitsubishi Triton, you can drain the fuel tank by opening the feed hose and removing the fuel pump relay. This process can be done by following these steps:

Firstly, locate the feed hose. This is the hose that carries fuel from the tank to the engine. It is usually made of rubber or metal and can be found near the fuel tank or engine. Once located, you will need to open the feed hose by disconnecting it from the fuel tank or engine. Make sure to have a fuel can ready to catch the drained fuel.

Next, you need to remove the fuel pump relay. The fuel pump relay is a small electronic component that controls the fuel pump. It is usually located near the fuel pump, which is often found in the engine bay or near the fuel tank. Refer to your Mitsubishi Triton manual to locate the exact position of the fuel pump relay. Once located, simply unplug or unscrew the relay to remove it.

With the feed hose opened and the fuel pump relay removed, you can now activate the pump to drain the fuel. This can be done by jumping the relay or using a manual pump. Place the drained fuel into a fuel can. Make sure to have enough fuel cans to store the drained fuel.

Finally, once the fuel tank is empty, you can close the feed hose by reconnecting it and reinstall the fuel pump relay. Ensure that all connections are secure and properly tightened to prevent leaks.

It is important to note that working with fuel can be dangerous, so it is recommended to wear protective gear and have a fire extinguisher nearby. Always refer to your Mitsubishi Triton manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any part of the process.

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For diesel models, use a siphon tube in the fill neck

If you have a diesel Mitsubishi Triton, you can use a siphon tube to drain the fuel tank. This method is suitable for diesel models as you can insert a thin tube into the filler neck, bypassing the rollover valve.

Firstly, you will need to obtain a siphon tube, also known as a siphon pump. This is a thin, flexible tube that can be inserted into the filler neck of your diesel Triton. Ensure you have a suitable container to collect the drained fuel. Place the container at a lower level than the fuel tank to allow for gravity to assist with the siphoning process.

Next, locate the filler neck on your Triton. This is the opening where you usually fill up the fuel tank. Remove the fuel cap and set it aside in a safe place to avoid losing it or getting debris inside the opening. Insert the siphon tube into the filler neck. You may need to push and manoeuvre the tube carefully to guide it past the rollover valve, which is located at the bottom of the filler neck.

Once the tube is in place, start siphoning by sucking on the end of the tube to create a vacuum. You can also use a manual or electric siphon pump for this step if you have one available. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary safety precautions when working with fuel.

With the tube past the valve and the vacuum created, the fuel will start draining from the tank into your collection container. This process may take some time, so be patient and ensure the tube remains securely in place. Once the fuel has finished draining, carefully remove the tube and replace the fuel cap.

Remember to dispose of the drained fuel responsibly and according to local regulations.

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Don't try to put a hose through the tank filler

If you are looking to drain the fuel tank of a Mitsubishi Triton, it is important to note that trying to put a hose through the tank filler is not a viable option. This is because, at the bottom of the tube, there is a rollover safety valve that will prevent the hose from reaching the fuel. As an alternative, you can try to find a drain bolt at the bottom of the tank. However, some models, such as the 2013 Mitsubishi Triton, do not have a drain bolt. In this case, you will have to remove the tank to drain the fuel.

For petrol models, you can open up the feed hose coming from the tank and, with the fuel pump relay removed and jumped, activate the pump to drain the fuel into a fuel can. Make sure you have enough cans to store the fuel. This process can be time-consuming, so plan accordingly.

On diesel models, you may be able to use a siphon tube in the fill neck to pump out the fuel. These tubes are thin enough to get past the rollover valve but will also take some time to completely drain the tank.

If you are unsure about how to proceed, it is always best to consult a qualified mechanic or a specialist fuel draining service to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

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