Draining The 79' Bronco: Step-By-Step Fuel Tank Guide

how to drain fuel tank on 79 ford bronco

If you need to drain the fuel tank of a 79 Ford Bronco, there are a few methods you can try. The Bronco's fuel tank does not have a drain plug, so you may need to get creative. One option is to use a siphon to drain the tank, which can be inserted through the filler neck. You can also try removing the filler tube and hose from the tank and then using your siphon directly in the tank. Another method is to take the fuel pump suction hose off the fuel pump and put it into a gas can, then use an air hose to put air pressure into the fuel tank and push the fuel out. Be sure to take safety precautions to avoid any chance of sparking near the tank, and consider the weight of the fuel when deciding how to handle the tank.

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Siphoning the tank

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Park the Bronco on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Ensure the engine is cool before starting work. Place a suitable container for catching the drained fuel underneath the tank.

Step 2: Access the Fuel Tank

Locate the fuel tank and ensure you have sufficient clearance to work. If necessary, raise the rear of the vehicle and safely support it with jack stands. Remove the skid plate, if equipped, to access the tank.

Step 3: Disconnect Components

Disconnect the ground cable from the vehicle battery to prevent any chance of sparking near the tank. Disconnect the fuel gauge sending unit wire at the fuel tank. Loosen the clamp on the fuel filler pipe hose and disconnect it from the pipe.

Step 4: Insert the Siphon

Obtain a siphon tube or a small-diameter tube that can fit through the filler neck. Insert the tube into the filler neck and ensure it reaches the bottom of the tank. You may need to remove the filler tube and hose to gain better access for the siphon tube.

Step 5: Start Siphoning

Begin the siphoning process by sucking on the tube to create a vacuum, and then let the fuel flow into the container. You can also use an electric fuel pump with rubber hoses to siphon the fuel. Just ensure the pump is compatible with your carbureted engine.

Step 6: Monitor the Process

Keep an eye on the fuel level in the container and replace or empty it as necessary. Continue siphoning until the tank is sufficiently drained.

Step 7: Reassemble

Once you've drained the desired amount of fuel, carefully remove the siphon tube. Reattach the filler tube and hose, ensuring all connections are secure. Reattach the skid plate and lower the vehicle.

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Removing the filler tube and hose

Firstly, it is important to gather the necessary tools and materials, which may include a floor jack, supports, wrenches, and containers for the fuel. Before beginning any work, ensure the vehicle is securely parked on level ground, with wheel chocks in place to prevent accidental movement.

The next step is to locate the filler tube and hose. The filler tube is typically found near the fuel tank, and it is through this tube that fuel is added to the tank. The hose connected to the filler tube may be made of rubber or another flexible material. To remove the filler tube and hose, start by loosening any clamps or connectors securing the hose to the filler tube and the fuel tank. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect the hose from the pipe before proceeding. Once the hose is loose, carefully pull it away from the filler tube and set it aside.

With the hose removed, you can now focus on the filler tube itself. Using the appropriate tools, carefully detach the filler tube from the fuel tank. This may involve unscrewing bolts or clamps holding the tube in place. Take care not to damage the surrounding components or the fuel tank itself. Once the filler tube is removed, you will have direct access to the fuel tank, allowing for further maintenance or repairs.

It is important to note that working with fuel can be dangerous, so ensure proper ventilation and take precautions to avoid any sparks or open flames. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, when handling automotive fuel.

By following these steps, you can successfully remove the filler tube and hose from your 79 Ford Bronco, enabling you to drain the fuel tank or perform other necessary maintenance tasks. Remember to consult a qualified mechanic or a trusted repair guide if you have any doubts or concerns during the process.

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Using a fuel pump

To drain the fuel tank of a 79 Ford Bronco using a fuel pump, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, purchase a cheap electric fuel pump and a length of fuel line. Ensure the pump is suitable for a carbureted engine, not a fuel injection pump. You will also need a suitable container to catch the drained fuel.

Next, locate the fuel pump suction hose and the fuel tank vent hose. Disconnect the fuel pump suction hose from the fuel pump and place it into your container. Then, disconnect the fuel tank vent hose at the top of the tank.

You can now begin to drain the fuel. Use an air hose to put air pressure into the fuel tank, which will push the fuel out through the suction hose and into your container.

Alternatively, you can use the fuel pump to siphon the fuel. Connect the fuel pump to the fuel line coming from the tank and use it to drain the fuel. This method may not get all the fuel out, but it will get most of it, leaving around half a gallon in the tank.

Remember to take the necessary safety precautions when working with fuel, and always refer to a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.

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Disconnecting the battery

Step 1: Locate the Battery

The first step is to find the battery in your 79 Ford Bronco. It is usually located in the engine compartment, typically near the front of the vehicle.

Step 2: Identify the Ground Cable

Once you have located the battery, identify the ground cable. This cable connects the negative terminal of the battery to the vehicle's chassis or frame. It is typically a thick, black cable with a clamp or bolt at one end, which attaches to the battery terminal.

Step 3: Disconnect the Ground Cable

Before disconnecting the ground cable, ensure that the vehicle's engine is off, and no electrical accessories are running. Using an appropriate size wrench or socket, loosen the clamp or bolt that secures the ground cable to the negative terminal of the battery. Carefully remove the cable from the terminal, ensuring that it does not touch any metal parts of the vehicle that could cause a spark.

Step 4: Secure the Cable

After disconnecting the ground cable, make sure to secure it safely away from the battery and any metal components. You can use a cable tie or tape to hold it in place, ensuring it does not accidentally make contact with the battery terminal or any metal surfaces.

Step 5: Verify Disconnection

To ensure the battery is completely disconnected, you can use a multimeter to test the voltage between the negative and positive terminals. The reading should display zero volts or a very low voltage, indicating that the battery is successfully disconnected.

By following these steps, you will have safely disconnected the battery in your 79 Ford Bronco, reducing the risk of sparks during the fuel tank draining process. Remember to exercise caution and wear appropriate safety gear when working with vehicle batteries and fuel systems.

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Replacing the tank

If you are replacing the tank of your 1979 Ford Bronco, you can purchase a new one from Fat Fender Garage. They offer a NON-EFI tank, as well as an EFI fuel tank and fuel pump. The NON-EFI tank is designed to allow you to remove the old tank from behind the seat and is ideal for carbureted motors. The EFI fuel tank is made from 1/8" 5052-H32 aluminum and mounts in the stock location. It is perfect for fuel-injected engine swaps and may require relocating the rear crossmember. Both tanks are built to order and have a lead time of 4-6 weeks.

When replacing the tank, you will need to first drain the fuel. This can be done by siphoning the fuel through the filler neck into a suitable container. You can also try removing the filler tube and then the hose from the tank, and then using a siphon tube directly in the tank. Another method is to use an old electric fuel pump with rubber hoses to siphon the fuel or to connect to existing lines for a faster drain.

Once the fuel is drained, you can begin the process of removing the old tank and installing the new one. This may involve lowering the vehicle, removing the skid plate, disconnecting the ground cable from the vehicle battery, and detaching various hoses and clamps. It is important to refer to a repair manual or seek professional assistance for a safe and proper installation.

After the new tank is installed, be sure to connect all the necessary hoses and clamps, fill the tank, and check for any leaks. It is also important to ensure that the vent hose is properly connected and routed to avoid issues when filling up the tank.

Frequently asked questions

The 1978-1979 Ford Bronco Non-EFI Fuel Tank does not have a drain plug, so you will need to siphon the fuel out. You can use a siphon tube, or an old electric fuel pump with rubber hoses.

The 1978-1979 Ford Bronco Non-EFI Fuel Tank has a capacity of approximately 20 gallons.

The best way to drain the tank is to use a siphon. You can also use an old electric fuel pump with rubber hoses to siphon the fuel, or connect directly to the existing lines for a faster drain.

The rollover safety vent is a simple ball check valve that allows air in and out of the tank. In the event of a rollover, the ball will drop and block the vent port from leaking fuel.

There are two options for the fuel level sensor: a 0-90 OHM fuel level sensor for aftermarket gauges, or a 75-10 OHM fuel level sensor for stock gauges with Coyote Swap tanks.

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