Rajan Wilcox
If you're looking to drop the fuel tank in your 2008 Saturn Vue, you've likely encountered a fuel pump problem. The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, and to replace it, you'll need to drop the tank. This is not a simple task and should be approached with caution. It is recommended to disconnect the battery and ground the chassis to prevent any sparks. You will also need to drain the tank and support it with a floor jack before disconnecting the wires to the tank. Once the tank is out, you can choose to cut a hole for easier access in the future, but be sure there are no gas fumes as this could be fatal.
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What You'll Learn
Drain the tank and disconnect the battery
To drain the tank of your 2008 Vue, you will need to purchase a fuel siphon system, which is available at most auto stores. This is a manually operated pump that will draw the gas out of your car and into a container. Ensure that the pump is approved for combustible materials, as any sparks near your gas tank could be dangerous. You will also need about six feet of a small ⅜ inch hose, as well as a container to collect the fuel.
Place a pan or receptacle underneath the drainage plug. If you have several gallons of gas left in the tank, be prepared to catch it. Try to gauge how much gas is in the tank before you begin and have the appropriate number of containers on hand. Stick the fuel siphon system's hose into the gas tank and pump until the tank is empty.
Alternatively, you can run the car close to empty. Unless you have the wrong fuel in the tank, turn the car on and run the gas down towards empty by driving around.
Once the tank is empty, you can move on to disconnecting the battery. The battery is located in the forward part of the engine compartment. Disconnecting the battery is a simple process. First, locate the negative terminal, which will be marked with a '-' symbol. Using a wrench, loosen the nut on the negative terminal and detach the cable. Repeat this process for the positive terminal, which will be marked with a '+' symbol. Ensure that the cables do not touch any metal surfaces during this process.
With the battery disconnected, you can now safely proceed with your repairs or maintenance. Remember to exercise extreme caution when working with a vehicle's fuel and electrical systems. If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to consult a qualified mechanic.
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Loosen the straps holding the tank in place
To drop the fuel tank of a 2008 Vue, you will need to loosen the straps holding the tank in place. The fuel tank straps secure the fuel tank to the vehicle's chassis. These straps are usually made of flexible metal and may have bolts or studs attached at each end.
Over time, the straps may become rusty and weak, so it is important to check their condition before attempting to loosen them. If they are rusty or loose, do not attempt to reuse them and replace them instead.
To loosen the straps, first disconnect the fuel supply line from the fuel filter. Then, disconnect the fuel tank ground strap fastener and the fuel tank electrical connector. It is important to note that you should not bend the fuel tank straps as this may cause damage.
Once the straps are disconnected, you can begin to loosen them by removing the bolts or studs at each end. You may need to use a wrench or ratchet to loosen the bolts. With the bolts removed, the straps should now be loose, and you can proceed with dropping the fuel tank.
Remember to support the fuel tank as you lower it and follow all safety precautions when working with fuel and vehicle components.
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Disconnect the fuel filler at the gas door
To disconnect the fuel filler at the gas door of a 2008 Saturn Vue, you will need to access the fuel door lock actuator. Start by removing the left rear interior quarter trim panel pocket. Once the pocket is removed, you can disconnect the actuator connector. Insert your arm through the left rear quarter body cavity and reach up towards the actuator.
Next, use your fingers to pry apart the tabs at the back end of the actuator bracket. Pull the actuator towards the back of the vehicle by about a quarter of an inch, or until you can open the fuel door. Continue to pry the tabs apart and pull on the actuator until the fuel door opens, providing access to the fuel door actuator retaining screws.
At this point, you can disconnect the fuel door actuator connector. Reach up into the opening between the inner and outer quarter sheet metal. It is important to note that the quarter panel trim does not need to be removed during this process.
By following these steps, you will be able to successfully disconnect the fuel filler at the gas door of your 2008 Saturn Vue.
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Lower the tank and disconnect the wires
To lower the tank and disconnect the wires, you will first need to put the car up on stands. It is important to ensure that the tank is empty before proceeding. Next, drain the tank and support it with a floor jack. Loosen the straps holding the tank in place and disconnect the fuel filler at the gas door. Lower the tank enough to disconnect the wires. You can then roll it out.
Before disconnecting the wires, be sure to disconnect the battery and ground the chassis to prevent any sparks. This is crucial as any gas fumes combined with a spark could be fatal.
If you think you may need to do this again, once the tank is out, you could cut a hole for easier access in the future. However, do not do this with the tank in place.
If you are replacing the fuel pump, it is common for the fuel filter to go out and the fuel pump to still be good. The fuel filter is built into the fuel pump in the tank, so to replace the fuel filter, the fuel pump must be replaced. This is because the fuel filter is part of the fuel pump module and is not serviceable unless the fuel pump is replaced.
The primary fuel pump is located on the left side of the tank. If you fill the tank and the car still does not start, you will have to drop the tank with a full tank of gas. The primary pump pumps the fuel to the fuel rail, while the secondary pump pumps fuel from the right side of the tank to the left.
If you are removing the gas tank, you will need to remove the rubber exhaust hangers so the exhaust can drop low enough to remove the tank.
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Roll the tank out and repair/replace
To roll the tank out and repair/replace, follow these steps:
First, locate your vehicle on a flat surface, preferably a concrete driveway, as asphalt can be damaged by fuel spills. Chock the front wheels to ensure the car doesn't roll while you're working underneath it. It is also recommended to have an assistant to help you with tools and to respond in case of any accidents.
Next, disconnect the battery's ground cable to prevent sparks, and drain the fuel tank. Place the discharge hose of the pump into a gas container and use the pump to extract all the fuel. Seal any openings to prevent vapors from escaping.
Now, lift your vehicle with a hoist or jack. Raise it high enough to access the brackets or straps that secure the tank. Once the car is lifted, support it with jack stands.
Blow compressed air to remove debris from the outside of the fuel lines and wiring connectors. Use a small stiff brush to loosen any accumulated debris if needed.
Loosen the gas tank strap bolts until they are only held on by enough threads to support the tank. Carefully lower the fuel tank to the ground as you finish loosening the bolts. You may use a low-profile floor jack to help lower the tank if you have one and the car is jacked up high enough.
Remove the gas tank support straps from around the tank, being careful not to kink or damage them. Now, you can drag the tank out from underneath the car.
With the tank out, you can perform the necessary repairs or replacements. Finally, reinstall the tank by following the previous steps in reverse. Ensure you reconnect the battery and ground the chassis to prevent any sparks.
Note: It is essential to take proper safety precautions when working with fuel and vehicle repairs. Always refer to a professional mechanic or a detailed repair manual for specific instructions regarding your vehicle.
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