Katerina Swanson
If you're looking to remove the fuel tank from your 1979 Corvette, you've come to the right place. This process can be straightforward, but it's important to be cautious when handling fuel. Before you begin, ensure your tank is as empty as possible. Then, disconnect the battery, remove the spare tire, and disconnect the fuel lines. Depending on your model, you may need to remove the fuel sending unit from the top or bottom of the tank. Once everything is disconnected, carefully lower the tank. Be sure to have a clear understanding of the process before you begin, and always put safety first.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year of Corvette | 1963-1979 |
| Fuel tank removal process | Disconnect the battery, remove the spare tire and carrier support, pull the rubber fuel hose, drain the fuel, disconnect the fuel line at the bottom of the tank, loosen the tank strap nuts, unbolt the crossbar, remove the fuel sending unit and pick-up from the top of the tank, use a screwdriver and hammer to drift the locking ring counterclockwise, remove the gas cap, and replace the tank |
| Tools/Parts Required | Drain can compatible with fuel, hand tools, rubber fuel hose and clamps, emery cloth or sandpaper, hydraulic jack, jack stands, eye protection, shop manual, fuel sending unit gasket, locking ring, locking ring wrench, new gas hose, fuel hose clamps, Tanks Inc. fuel tank with new hardware, gasket, and O-ring |
| Common Issues | Leaky or rusted gas tank, difficulty accessing hose clamps, fuel lines breaking |
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What You'll Learn
Remove the fuel sending unit and pick-up from the top of the tank
To remove the fuel sending unit and pick-up from the top of the tank in a 1979 Corvette, you will first need to drain the fuel tank. This can be done by siphoning the gas out. Once the tank is empty, remove the spare tire and tub.
Next, disconnect the wire plug and the fuel evaporative hose on the driver's side frame rail. You may need to lower the muffler and disconnect it from the hanger to access these components. Now, remove the tank straps and bolts that secure the tank in place. There will be two bolts through the straps under the tail light area.
With the tank straps and bolts removed, you can now access the fuel sending unit and pick-up from the top of the tank. Carefully disconnect any fuel lines and wiring connected to the sending unit. Ensure that you have a good, clear workspace and that you are wearing appropriate protective gear, especially eye protection.
Once all the connections have been disconnected, you can now remove the fuel sending unit and pick-up from the top of the tank. It is recommended to have a helper to assist with this process, as it can be challenging to manage alone.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some sources suggest removing the fuel tank entirely before attempting to remove the fuel sending unit. This can provide easier access and make the process more manageable.
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Disconnect the battery, spare tire and carrier support
To disconnect the battery, spare tire, and carrier support of a 1979 Corvette, follow these steps:
Disconnecting the Battery
First, ensure the car is turned off. Then, locate the battery and identify the negative terminal, usually marked with a "-" sign or a black cover. Using an appropriate tool, such as a socket wrench or a combination of a wrench and a screwdriver, loosen the nut or bolt that secures the negative battery cable to the terminal. Once loose, carefully disconnect the cable from the battery terminal.
Removing the Spare Tire and Carrier Support
To remove the spare tire and carrier support, begin by attempting to turn the carrier bolt with the spare lock. If successful, you may be able to lengthen the slack on the bolt, allowing you to lift the tub off the bolt. Alternatively, try using your car keys to unlock the spare tire lock. If this is unsuccessful, you may need to drill out the lock cylinder to remove the old spare tire. Once the lock is removed, it should be easier to access and remove the spare tire.
For the carrier support, you will need to remove the two bolts—one on each side—that connect the rear diff carrier support bracket to the frame. By installing slightly longer bolts and then loosening them, you can reduce tension on the diff carrier, making it easier to remove the carrier support bracket.
Please note that these are general instructions, and specific steps may vary depending on your vehicle's unique configuration and your level of expertise. Always exercise caution when performing any automotive repairs or modifications.
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Drain the tank and disconnect the fuel line
To drain the tank and disconnect the fuel line of your 1979 Corvette, start by disconnecting the battery. Then, remove the spare tire and carrier support from the car. Next, you'll want to drain the fuel tank. It is recommended to start with as empty a tank as possible. One way to drain the remaining fuel is to put a 3/8 bolt into the frame line end and let it drain into a drain pan. You can also siphon drain by putting a hose in and starting the siphon. Alternatively, if you have an air compressor, you can pull the fuel line off of the fuel pump and blow back into the tank (remember to take the gas cap off first).
Once the tank is drained, you can disconnect the fuel line at the bottom of the tank. There will also be a vent line on the driver's side that needs to be removed. It is recommended to replace the fuel hose with a new one, rather than reusing the old one. You should also replace the fuel hose clamps.
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Loosen tank strap nuts and bolts
To loosen the tank strap nuts and bolts on a 1971 Corvette, first, remove the exhaust and spare tire carrier. Then, to remove the two nuts on each side of the front gas tank cross support, try using an offset closed box wrench. If the nut is frozen, try using a vise grip on the nut or bolt head. If this doesn't work, try brushing on acetone/red trans fluid 50/50 as a penetrant and letting it soak for a few days. If this still doesn't work, you may need to use a dremel tool cutoff wheel or a hacksaw to cut through the bolt head or nut. Another option is to use a nut splitter if there is enough room.
It is important to note that this process may differ for different models and years of Corvettes, and some steps may be more challenging than described. Always refer to a trusted repair manual or a mechanic for specific instructions and safety precautions before attempting any repairs or maintenance on your vehicle.
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Reverse the process to reinstall the tank
To reinstall the fuel tank on your 1979 Corvette, you will need to reverse the removal process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Begin by placing the fuel tank back into position, ensuring it is securely held in place by the two straps that are parallel to the tank and perpendicular to the Corvette. These straps need to be tightened securely.
Next, reconnect the fuel lines, including the fuel and return lines, as well as the vent line on the driver's side. Ensure all connections are secure and tight to prevent any leaks.
After that, reconnect the ground to the sending unit. The sending unit and gasket should be placed correctly, and the locking ring should be slid down over the sending unit tabs. Use a locking ring wrench to tighten the locking ring until the locking tabs rest against the tank stops.
Now, install a new fuel hose, ensuring it is the correct length and securely clamped. It is recommended to use a new fuel hose instead of reusing an old one for safety reasons. Also, consider replacing the fuel hose clamps at this stage.
Once the fuel hose is installed, reconnect the sending unit wiring and reinstall the spare tire carrier assembly. Reconnect the battery, and you can now refill the fuel tank.
Finally, check all your connections and ensure there are no leaks before starting the engine. Test drive your Corvette to ensure the fuel gauge is working correctly, and you're ready to hit the road!
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Frequently asked questions
Here is a step-by-step guide to removing the fuel tank on a 1979 Corvette:
- Disconnect the battery.
- Remove the spare tire and carrier support.
- Disconnect all fuel lines (fuel and return lines) from the tank.
- Disconnect the vent line on the driver's side.
- Disconnect the ground from the sending unit.
- Remove the rubber boot surrounding the filler hole and inspect the hoses to the right.
- Drain the remaining fuel from the tank.
- Loosen the tank strap nuts at the rear of the frame crossbar.
- Unscrew the locking ring using a Corvette sending unit locking ring removal tool.
- Remove the fuel sending unit and pick-up from the top of the tank.
You will need a drain pan that is compatible with fuel, a hydraulic jack, jack stands, eye protection, a screwdriver, a hammer, and a Corvette sending unit locking ring removal tool.
Yes, here are a few tips to make the process easier:
- It is recommended to use a new rubber fuel hose instead of reusing the old one.
- Before dropping the tank, make sure to remove the rubber boot surrounding the filler hole and inspect the hoses for any leaks.
- Take pictures of the crossmember orientation and bolt holes before removing the forward crossmember.
- Have someone assist you in watching the fuel lines while you lower the tank.
- Removing the passenger-side outside rear tail-lamp can provide easier access to the fuel line.
