Ameer Randolph
If you're experiencing issues with an airlock in your fuel tank, there are several methods to fix it. One common solution is to fill the tank very slowly, reducing the pressure build-up that causes the airlock. Alternatively, you can try using a short length of fuel-resistant PVC tubing by placing it down the filler neck before filling up. This prevents the fuel from backing up in the fill tube and causing the clicking noise associated with airlocks. Another suggestion is to turn the nozzle upside down while filling, which has proven effective for some car models. In more severe cases, you may need to drain the fuel tank, clean the fuel system, and refill it with fresh gasoline to completely resolve the issue.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of airlock | Bad gas, contaminated with dirt, corrosion, water, or insufficient additives |
| Solution | Drain the fuel tank, refill with fresh gasoline, and clean the fuel system |
| Alternative solutions | Fill the tank very slowly, use a short length of fuel-resistant PVC tubing, turn the nozzle upside down, or change gas stations |
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What You'll Learn
Try turning the nozzle upside down
If you are experiencing issues with airlocks in your fuel tank, a simple solution could be to turn the nozzle upside down. This may sound counterintuitive, but it has proven to be an effective trick for many car owners, especially those driving Porsche models.
When attempting to fill up your tank, you may encounter a clicking noise, indicating that the fuel is backing up in the fill tube. This is a common symptom of an airlock, which can be a frustrating issue when refuelling. By turning the nozzle upside down, you can often bypass this issue and allow the fuel to flow smoothly into your tank.
The technique involves turning the handle, or the part you squeeze, towards the centre of the hood, and then filling the tank in this position. This method has been shared by multiple Porsche drivers, who have successfully used it across different models and years, including the 1974, 1978, and 1995 variants.
It is important to note that while turning the nozzle upside down can be a quick fix, it may not address the root cause of the airlock issue. For a more comprehensive solution, you may need to explore other options, such as filling your tank very slowly or using a short length of fuel-resistant PVC tubing to aid in the filling process. However, as a temporary measure to get you back on the road, turning the nozzle upside down is certainly worth trying.
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Fill the tank very slowly
Filling the tank very slowly is one of the two options to fix an airlock in a petrol tank. This problem is quite common, and it occurs when the neck of the gas tank airlocks. When filling the tank, the fuel backs up in the fill tube, causing a clicking noise.
To avoid this issue, pull the fill nozzle out slightly. Additionally, changing gas stations may help, as the auto-shut-off mechanism can sometimes be overly sensitive.
When filling the tank slowly, it is important to be cautious and patient. The petrol pump handle should be pulled out halfway, which will result in a slower filling process but will prevent blowback and the build-up of pressure that causes the pump to cut off.
In some cases, the angle of the tank inlet also plays a role. Choosing a lower setting on the handle can help, allowing the pump to fill in smaller increments. For example, selecting the lowest setting may fill the tank in increments of $10 at a time.
By following these steps and filling the tank very slowly, you can effectively address the airlock issue in your fuel tank.
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Put a short length of fuel-resistant PVC tubing down the filler neck
If you are experiencing issues with airlocks in your fuel tank, there are a few methods to fix this. Firstly, understand that bad gas can be caused by gasoline suppliers not mixing the required amount of additives, leading to fuel varnish in the system. Tanks can also be contaminated with dirt, corrosion, and water. To fix this, you must drain the fuel tank, clean the fuel system, and refill it with fresh gasoline.
Now, if you are experiencing issues with the neck of the gas tank being airlocked, there is a simple solution. You can put a short length of 3/8 fuel-resistant PVC tubing down the filler neck before filling up the tank. Ensure the tube is long enough that it does not fall into the tank but short enough that it does not touch the fuel when the tank is full. It is recommended to hold onto the tube with your spare hand while filling. Before removing the tube, let any fuel inside it drain out, being careful not to spill any petrol. To avoid spills, gently bend the tube back into the mouth of the fuel filler.
It is important to note that some sources suggest that PVC is not suitable for use with petrol. This is because PVC can break down due to the solvents present in gasoline. These solvents include ketones and esters, which are known enemies of PVC. Additionally, the glue used to assemble PVC pipes may not hold up against gasoline. As an alternative, you can use polyethylene, which is petrol-resistant, or a rubber hose, which provides a better seal.
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Drain the fuel tank and fill it with fresh gasoline
To fix an airlock in your fuel tank, you will need to drain the tank and refill it with fresh gasoline. This is a crucial maintenance task that will ensure the longevity and efficiency of your vehicle. Over time, dirt, debris, and moisture can accumulate in the fuel tank, leading to contamination and clogged fuel filters. Old fuel can also break down and lose its effectiveness, causing starting problems and poor fuel economy.
Before draining your fuel tank, it is important to understand your vehicle's fuel system. The fuel system stores and delivers fuel to the engine, where it is burned to produce energy. The fuel tank is the primary storage component for gasoline or diesel in your vehicle. It is designed to safely contain the fuel, preventing leaks and minimizing evaporation. The tank is typically made from high-density polyethylene, steel, or aluminum and is equipped with a fuel pump and sending unit.
To drain the fuel tank, you will need a few essential tools:
- A siphon pump (hand-operated or electric) to transfer fuel from the tank to a container
- A fuel container made from a material safe for storing flammable liquids
- Wrenches and pliers to access and loosen parts of the fuel system
- A drain pan to catch any spilled fuel
- Safety gear, including fuel-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and a fire extinguisher
Once you have the necessary tools, follow these steps:
- Get under the car and locate the drainage plug. The fuel tank is usually on the same side of the car as the gas filler.
- Place a drain pan directly under the plug.
- Use a wrench or socket wrench to remove the plug.
- Allow the fuel to drain completely.
- If your vehicle does not have a drainage plug, you can use the fuel lines underneath the tank. Turn the car on and off repeatedly to force the gas out of the tank through the electric fuel pump.
- Once the tank is empty, you can refill it with fresh gasoline.
Remember to dispose of the drained fuel properly. Contact your local environmental waste disposal center or fire department for information on how to safely dispose of environmental waste.
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Change gas stations
Changing gas stations may be a simple solution to fixing an airlock in your fuel tank. The problem could be due to the auto-shut-off mechanism at the station being set too sensitively.
It is worth noting that the problem may persist at other stations, and you may need to try other solutions alongside changing gas stations. For example, you could try filling your tank very slowly, or use a short length of fuel-resistant PVC tubing, ensuring it is long enough that you can hold onto it, but not so long that it reaches the fuel.
Another option is to check the canister vent valve under the driver's side rear. There may be a check valve that needs to be cleaned, replaced, or unstuck with WD-40.
Additionally, you could try turning the nozzle upside down when filling up your tank. This has been known to work for some car models.
If the problem persists, it may be an issue with your car's fuel system, and you may need to consult a mechanic or a specialist forum for further advice.
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Frequently asked questions
If the neck of the gas tank is airlocked, you will notice that the fuel system makes a clicking noise. This is due to the fuel backing up in the fill tube.
There are two ways to fix an airlock in a fuel tank:
- Fill the tank very slowly.
- Put a short length of 3/8 fuel-resistant PVC tubing down the filler neck before filling up. Ensure that the tube is long enough to not fall into the tank but short enough that it does not reach the fuel when the tank is full.
An airlock in a fuel tank can be caused by a faulty shut-off valve. Sometimes, changing gas stations can also fix the problem as the auto-shutoff can be set too sensitively.
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