Katerina Swanson
Draining a fuel tank can be done in several ways. One method involves using a squeeze bulb siphon hose, which is a cheap investment and can be used multiple times. Another method is to use two tubes, pushing one into the tank below the fuel level and the other end into an empty fuel tank, and the second tube into the tank without going below the fuel level. By blowing down the tube, an airtight seal is created, and the fuel can be transferred. Additionally, removing the fuel tank is another option, which involves raising jacks to touch each tank bracket, removing the filler hose, and slowly lowering the tank. While it is recommended to empty the fuel tank before removing it, some people have reported no issues with dropping the tank when it was 3/4 full.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best way to empty the tank | Take it down and use a squeeze bulb siphon hose or two tubes to start a syphon |
| When to empty the tank | Before removing it or when replacing a bad fuel pump |
| Steps to remove the tank | 1. Raise the jacks until they are touching the tank bracket |
| 2. Remove the filler hose and vent line from the tank | |
| 3. Remove each set of four bolts from each bracket | |
| 4. Slowly lower the tank to access the sending unit | |
| 5. Unplug the wires and hoses |
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What You'll Learn
Use a siphon hose to drain the tank
To empty your Chevy K20 fuel tank, you can use a siphon hose. Siphon hoses can be found in various buildings, including bunkers, gas stations, and garages. They can also be purchased online or at automotive stores. Before starting, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area and avoid any open flames or sparks as gasoline is highly flammable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a siphon hose to drain your Chevy K20 fuel tank:
First, locate the fuel tank and ensure that you have easy access to it. Place a suitable container for the gasoline on the ground near the tank. The container must be large enough to hold the amount of gasoline you plan to drain and should be securely sealed to prevent spills or leaks. It should also be lower than the fuel tank to allow the gasoline to flow downwards due to gravity.
Next, insert one end of the siphon hose into the fuel tank. You may need to remove the fuel filler cap or use an appropriate adapter to ensure a secure fit. Once inserted, carefully lower the other end of the hose into the container. Ensure that the end of the hose is fully submerged to avoid splashing or spilling gasoline.
Now, start sucking on the hose to create a siphoning effect. This will draw the gasoline out of the tank and into the hose. You may need to suck on the hose for a few seconds to get the flow started. Be careful not to ingest any gasoline, and avoid breathing in the fumes as much as possible. Alternatively, some siphon hoses may have a hand pump or other mechanism to start the flow without using your mouth.
Once the gasoline is flowing, maintain the siphon by keeping the hose in place. It may help to have an assistant hold the hose steady to prevent spills or splashing. Allow the gasoline to drain completely, or to the desired level. If you need to stop the flow temporarily, you can pinch the hose or lift it out of the container.
Finally, when you have finished draining the fuel tank, remove the hose carefully. Ensure that the container is securely sealed to prevent spills during transport or storage. Clean up any spills or splashes immediately, and dispose of the gasoline safely and responsibly, following local regulations.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively use a siphon hose to drain your Chevy K20 fuel tank. Remember always to take the necessary precautions when working with gasoline and ensure proper ventilation throughout the process.
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Jump the fuel pump relay
If you need to jump the fuel pump relay on your Chevy K20, it's likely because you want to empty the fuel tank. This could be because there is old fuel in the tank that needs to be drained. A bad fuel pump relay can also prevent your Chevy truck from starting up properly.
The fuel pump relay is a safety feature that controls the current flow throughout your Chevy truck's electrical system. It supplies electricity to the fuel pump and the rest of the electrical system, including the ignition system, lights, and safety features like anti-lock brakes. If the fuel pump relay senses trouble, it can slow or stop the flow of electricity to prevent your engine from stalling or burning out.
Jumping the fuel pump relay is not a long-term solution, and regular issues could indicate that it's time to replace your fuel pump relay or even your truck. However, if you need a quick fix, you can try one of two methods to get around a faulty fuel pump relay.
First, gather your tools: a ratchet set, an open-ended wrench, and jumper cables. If you don't have jumper cables, you can use a 5-inch copper wire with a bit of insulation removed from each end. Then, follow these steps:
- Find the fuel pump relay. It's usually located by your fuse box or battery terminals, but you can double-check your owner's manual.
- Carefully disconnect the battery terminals and remove the black negative cable.
- Connect your jumper cables. Connect the red end of the cable to the red battery terminal, and then connect the black end to the black or blue terminal. Be careful not to touch the terminals while in contact with any metal.
- Start your engine and let it run for about 15 seconds before turning off the ignition switch.
- Check your fuel gauge light to see if it turns green. This may take some time, so be patient.
If you're unsure about any of these steps or if you encounter any issues, it's best to consult a mechanic or a Chevy service team.
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Remove filler hose and vent line
To remove the filler hose and vent line from the tank, you will need to raise the jacks until they are just touching each tank bracket. This will give you the access you need to remove the filler hose and vent line. Once you have removed them, you can then remove each set of four bolts from each bracket.
It is important to note that you should empty the fuel tank before removing the filler hose and vent line. However, one user reported that they did not experience any problems when they removed the tank when it was 3/4 full.
After removing the filler hose and vent line, and the bolts, you can then slowly lower the tank until you can access the sending unit. At this point, you can unplug the two wires and one to three hoses, depending on how many outlets your sender has.
In some cases, there may be a ground wire from the tank to the frame. However, some models may only have a ground wire from the sending unit to the frame.
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Unplug wires and hoses from the sending unit
Unplugging the wires and hoses from the sending unit is a crucial step in removing the gas tank from a 1973-1987 GM truck. This process requires careful attention to detail to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
First and foremost, it is essential to gain access to the sending unit by raising the jacks until they gently touch each tank bracket. This step ensures stability and ease of access during the procedure. Once the jacks are securely in place, the next step is to remove the filler hose and vent line from the tank. This involves carefully detaching the components that facilitate the flow of fuel into and out of the tank.
With the filler hose and vent line removed, the focus shifts to the bolts that secure the tank in place. By removing each set of four bolts from their respective brackets, the tank can be gradually lowered, providing better access to the sending unit. It is important to approach this step with caution and ensure the tank is securely supported throughout the process.
At this stage, with the tank lowered, the critical task of unplugging the wires and hoses from the sending unit can begin. Depending on the specific configuration of the truck, there will be two wires and one to three hoses connected to the sending unit. It is important to identify and detach each connection carefully. In some cases, there may also be a ground wire running from the tank to the frame, but this is not always present. Alternatively, there might be a ground wire that connects the sending unit to the frame, as described by one individual recounting their experience.
As you unplug each wire and hose, it is essential to remain mindful of your surroundings and maintain a safe working environment. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the truck's electrical system and that all necessary safety precautions have been taken. By carefully following these steps, you will successfully unplug the wires and hoses from the sending unit, allowing you to proceed with the gas tank removal process.
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Use jacks to slowly lower the tank
To slowly lower the tank, you will need to use jacks. First, raise the jacks until they are just touching each tank bracket. Remove the filler hose and vent line from the tank. Next, you will need to remove each set of four bolts from each bracket. Now, slowly lower the tank until you can access the sending unit. Unplug the two wires and one to three hoses, depending on how many outlets your sender has. Sometimes there is a ground wire from the tank to the frame. If there is no ground wire from the tank to the frame, there may be a ground wire from the sending unit to the frame. Now, slowly let the tank down with the floor jacks.
It is recommended that you empty the fuel tank before doing this. However, one user reported that they lowered their tank when it was 3/4 full without any problems. If your truck has a crazy lift kit, you will need to find a way to support the tank and slowly lower it.
It is important to note that the process of lowering the tank may vary slightly depending on the specific model and configuration of your Chevy K20. This guide provides a general overview of the process, but it is always a good idea to refer to your vehicle's service manual or seek the advice of a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.
Additionally, it is crucial to take the necessary safety precautions when performing any work on your vehicle. This includes wearing protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, and ensuring that you are working in a well-ventilated area when dealing with fuel and other fluids.
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Frequently asked questions
You can empty your fuel tank without removing it by using a siphon. Take two tubes (around 1/2" ID) and push one into the tank until it is below the fuel level, and place the other end into a container that can hold the fuel. Push the second tube into the tank, but not as far as the fuel. Wrap a rag around the two tubes at the tank filler neck to create an airtight seal, then blow down the tube. When the fuel starts to flow from the other tube, pull the rag out and let the siphon do its work.
The best way to empty your fuel tank is to use a squeeze bulb siphon hose. This method is cheap, effective, and can be used multiple times.
To empty your fuel tank before removing it, first, raise the jacks until they are touching the tank brackets. Remove the filler hose and vent line from the tank, then remove each set of four bolts from the brackets. Slowly lower the tank to access the sending unit, then unplug the wires and hoses. Finally, slowly lower the tank completely with the jacks.
