Sylvie Willis
Removing the fuel tank from a Land Rover Discovery II is no easy task. It involves a lot of work, including disconnecting the tank fuel pump pipes, which can be challenging. Some people have shared their experiences and advice on how they tackled the job, with one person recommending that it is easier to disconnect the lines from the hole in the boot floor. Another suggests that it is easier to do this when the tank is empty.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Disconnecting the fuel pump pipes
To disconnect the fuel pump pipes, start by lifting the carpet in the boot to access the cover. Remove the cover and then disconnect the lines and electrical connections. It is important to be careful when disconnecting the lines, as they are made of plastic and can be fragile.
Another option is to create a lift-up flap in the carpet instead of removing it completely. This can be done by measuring the position of the access panel and cutting a flap in the carpet. This method may be easier and faster, especially if you are working on an old vehicle with corrosion issues.
It is also worth noting that some people have reported being able to remove the tank with the pump installed, which can save time and effort. However, it is always a good idea to have a plan for disconnecting the fuel pump pipes in case it is necessary.
Sealing Fuel Tanks: The Ultimate Guide to DIY Tank Seals
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Removing the access cover
To remove the access cover, first locate the access panel. Instead of removing the seats, trim panels, and carpet, you can simply cut a lift-up flap. Then, lift the carpet in the boot to access the cover. Once you have located the access cover, remove it by unscrewing it or using a suitable tool. With the access cover removed, you can now access the fuel tank and proceed with further steps, such as disconnecting the fuel lines and electrical connections.
It is important to note that you should exercise caution when working with fuel systems and ensure that the fuel tank is empty before attempting any removal or maintenance work. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any steps or procedures.
Additionally, when working on the fuel tank, be mindful of any corrosion or grime buildup that may be present. Proper cleaning and treatment may be necessary to ensure the fuel tank and surrounding components are in optimal condition. This can help prevent future issues and maintain the vehicle's performance and safety.
In some cases, you may need to partially drop or lower the fuel tank to gain better access to the fuel pump and fuel lines. This can be done by carefully lowering the tank and reaching your hand in from the N/S (near-side) to disconnect the fuel pump pipes. However, it is recommended to exercise caution and avoid forcing any connections or pulling the fuel lines too far, especially if they are made of plastic.
Overall, removing the access cover on a Discovery 2 fuel tank involves locating the access panel, cutting a lift-up flap if necessary, lifting the boot carpet, and then removing the access cover itself. By following these steps, you can gain access to the fuel tank and perform further maintenance or repairs as needed.
Industrial Fuel Tank Painting: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Disconnecting the fuel lines
Firstly, it is recommended to have an empty tank, as this makes the process easier. Start by dropping the fuel tank to gain access to the fuel lines. You can do this by partly dropping the tank and reaching your hand in from the N/S (near-side). If this doesn't provide enough access, you may need to lift the boot carpet for better reach.
Once you have adequate access, locate the fuel lines. They are usually made of plastic, so be careful not to pull or stretch them too far to avoid any damage. Disconnect the lines from the fuel pump or, if necessary, from the hole in the boot floor.
If you encounter any rust or corrosion on the fittings, you may need to use a knife to cut through the rubber hoses for easier removal. Ensure you clean the area thoroughly with an appropriate cleaning agent to remove any grime and crud.
Finally, inspect the fuel lines and fittings for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Replace any damaged components to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your fuel system.
Remember to exercise caution when working with fuel lines and always refer to a professional mechanic or a detailed guide if you are unsure about any steps.
Welding Fuel Tanks: Is MIG Welding Safe?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Lifting the boot carpet
First, locate the finishing trim strip between the carpet and the bumper. This trim strip has a removable filler strip that can be pulled up and out. By removing this filler strip, you will reveal the screws that hold the main trim strip in place.
Next, remove the screws and the finishing trim strip itself. Depending on the configuration of your Discovery II, you may also need to remove the rear row seat(s) and/or the side lower trim panel(s) to fully access the carpet.
With the trim strip removed, you can now pull back the carpet to expose the fuel pump cover plate. The fuel pump cover plate is typically located under the floor at the rear of the vehicle. To access it, gently lift and move the carpet out of the way.
Once the carpet is lifted and the fuel pump cover plate is exposed, you can proceed with removing the cover plate to access the fuel pump. This is done by removing the screws holding the cover plate in place and gently levering it up. Be careful not to damage the seal beneath the cover plate during this process.
It is worth noting that some Discovery II owners have opted to cut a flap in the boot carpet instead of completely lifting and removing it. This flap provides easier access to the fuel pump and tank for future maintenance or repairs without the need to fully lift and remove the carpet each time. However, if you prefer to keep your boot carpet intact, following the steps outlined above will allow you to safely lift the carpet and access the fuel pump and tank as needed.
Fuel Additive Diffusion: How Long Does It Take?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cleaning and rust treatment
Before you begin the cleaning and rust treatment, it is important to take safety precautions. Wear appropriate clothing and safety gear, and ensure the area is well-ventilated as de-rusting agents produce strong odours that can cause nausea or headaches.
First, drain the fuel from the tank into a can. If the fuel is still good, preserve it for later use. Next, inspect the tank for damage, including deep dents, large cracks, or severe impacts. If the rust has caused structural issues, the tank may need to be replaced. If the tank is intact, seal any cracks or small holes with rubber or vinyl vacuum caps.
Now, you can begin the rust removal process. Choose a rust removal agent, such as white vinegar (acetic acid), phosphoric acid, or muriatic acid diluted with water. Pour the cleaning solution into the tank until it is roughly half full. Then, gently shake the tank to allow the solution to reach all interior surfaces.
Next, add an agitator to help dislodge rust particles. Steel BBs, small nuts and bolts, or specially shaped abrasive media can be used as agitators. Shake the tank again, allowing the agitators to scrape away loose rust. Leave the cleaning solution to sit and soak for several hours or overnight if using vinegar, or for as little as 15 minutes if using stronger acids.
After the soaking period, carefully remove the cap and check the progress with a flashlight or torch. If necessary, add another third of the acid and continue agitating for another 10 minutes. Finally, neutralize the acid with a base such as baking soda, and flush the tank with warm water.
To prevent flash rusting, coat the tank's interior with a fuel-soluble sealer, kerosene, motor oil, or two-stroke oil. You can also use WD-40 to keep the tank from flash rusting.
Dropping the Fuel Tank: LS1 F-Body Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Removing the fuel tank from a Discovery 2 involves the following steps:
- Partly drop the tank.
- Disconnect the fuel lines from the pump.
- Disconnect the tank fuel pump pipes.
- Lift the carpet in the boot to get to the access cover.
- Disconnect the lines and electrical connections.
It is recommended to have a special tool for pump removal. However, some people have used a big knife to cut short sections of the rubber hose.
Taking the tank out and replacing it typically takes a couple of days.
