Removing Fuel Tank From C2 Corvette: Step-By-Step Guide

how to remove fuel tank c-2 corvette

Removing the fuel tank from a C2 Corvette requires careful adherence to safety procedures. Before beginning, ensure you have a fire extinguisher nearby, disconnect the battery, and drain the fuel tank. Next, remove the rear wheel and the rear wheelhouse liner and/or panel. You will then need to remove the mufflers and disconnect various components, such as the fuel pump jumper harness, fuel feed hose, and fuel tank filler pipe bracket. Finally, you can remove the fuel tank strap and the fuel tank itself.

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Disconnect the negative battery cable

Disconnecting the negative battery cable is a necessary step when removing the fuel tank of a C2 Corvette. It is important to note that there are different methods to do this, depending on the model year of your Corvette.

For a C7 Corvette, you will first need to remove the plastic covers in the front trunk (frunk) that shield the battery. Once exposed, there seem to be two ways to disconnect the negative terminal. The first method involves disconnecting the cable directly from the terminal by using a 10mm socket to pull up the connection plug. The second method is done by sliding off the connection slightly to the left of the terminal, which may even be easier than the first method.

For a C8 Corvette, there are also options for disconnecting the negative battery cable. One method involves a black knob that can rotate, allowing for flexibility in tight spaces. The other method involves a green knob with a straight design that only rotates where it attaches to the post.

For older models, such as the 1976 Corvette, issues with the negative battery cable may arise due to corrosion. In this case, you may need to replace the cable with a suitable alternative, such as an O ga welding cable or a short + cable from a Ford.

It is always recommended to refer to the specific instructions for your model year of Corvette when performing any maintenance or repairs.

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Drain the fuel tank

Draining the fuel tank of your C2 Corvette is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few different ways. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

First, locate the fuel pump. It is usually found behind the fire shield, in front of the right rear tire. You can try removing the bolts on the fuel pump and pulling it back to drain the tank. This method is quick and effective, as mentioned by a user who had to replace their fuel pump.

Alternatively, you can disconnect the rear tank fuel lines and drain the fuel into a container. This method is also quick and efficient, taking only about 30 minutes to complete. Ensure you have a container large enough to hold the drained fuel.

If you want to drain the fuel through the fuel rail, you can try hotwiring the relay to turn on the fuel pump. This method requires some technical knowledge and additional equipment. You will need to locate the FP (fuel pump) relay, which is usually found under the hood on the right side, in the fuse box. Then, you can either manually switch the relay with a +12v wire or purchase a hotwire kit to turn on the fuel pump and drain the tank.

Another option is to use compressed air to blow through the hose and clear any blockages that might be preventing the fuel from draining. This method can be useful if you are having trouble getting the last couple of gallons out of the tank.

Finally, siphoning is another way to drain the fuel tank. However, some Corvette models may have jagged gas piping that makes it difficult to insert a siphon tube. In this case, you may need to remove the sending unit to gain better access to the tank and siphon out the fuel.

Remember to exercise caution when working with fuel and always refer to a professional mechanic or a detailed manual if you are unsure about any steps.

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Remove the rear wheel

To remove the rear wheel of a C2 Corvette, follow these steps:

First, ensure that you have the necessary tools and safety equipment. You will need a jack, a jack stand, a lug wrench, and a wheel chock. It is also recommended to have a fire extinguisher nearby when working on any fuel-related project. Place the wheel chock in front of one of the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling forward or backward.

Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel before lifting the vehicle. This will make it easier to remove the wheel once the car is raised. Now, following the Vehicle Lifting Caution in the service precautions manual, use the jack to raise the vehicle. Place the jack stand in the recommended position to support the vehicle securely. Do not work under a vehicle that is only supported by a jack, as it may lower unexpectedly.

Once the vehicle is securely raised, remove the loosened lug nuts and set them aside, making sure they are not lost or misplaced. Carefully pull the wheel and tire assembly towards you and set it aside, ensuring it is stored safely and will not cause any obstruction or hazard.

With the rear wheel removed, you can now access the underbody components and begin the process of removing the fuel tank. Start by disconnecting the negative battery cable to prevent any accidental electrical discharge. Next, drain the fuel tank completely. This can be done by removing the flexible fuel line from the fuel pump, allowing the fuel to drain into a suitable container. Remember to work with caution as fuel is flammable.

Now that the rear wheel has been removed and the fuel tank is drained, you can proceed with the next steps of removing the fuel tank, which may include removing the left rear wheelhouse liner and other components, depending on the specific model of your C2 Corvette.

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Disconnect the fuel feed hose

To disconnect the fuel feed hose, you must first relieve the fuel system pressure. Refer to the Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure. Next, drain the fuel tank. You might need to siphon or pump out the gas, but if you remove the flexible fuel line from the fuel pump up in the engine bay, the gas will often drain right into a pan for you. You can also lift the rear end of the vehicle to let gravity help.

It is important to note that you should disconnect the negative battery cable at this time, as you do not want any sparks while you are working. Set your fire extinguisher nearby, as you really want all the gas out of the car because it is heavy and flammable.

Now, to disconnect the fuel feed hose, you will need to identify the correct hose. There should be at least two flexible rubber fuel lines going to hard steel tubes attached to the frame of the car. These might be on the passenger side or both sides of the car, depending on the model year. Use your pliers or screwdriver to undo the hose clamps and remove the flex lines from the car. You can leave them attached to the tank for now.

Once the fuel feed hose is disconnected, you can continue with the next steps, such as removing the fuel tank strap bolts and the fuel tank strap, before finally removing the fuel tank.

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Remove the fuel tank strap

To remove the fuel tank strap of a C2 Corvette, you must first drain the fuel tank and disconnect the negative battery cable. Next, remove the spare tire and the entire clamshell assembly to access the fuel tank. The fuel tank is held in place with a removable cross-member beam, located behind the differential and rear spring, and two straps that hook onto the removable beam.

Use a screwdriver or pliers to undo the hose clamps and remove the flex lines from the car. With the flex lines removed, you can now remove the fuel tank strap bolts and then the strap itself. Be sure to support the gas tank on a floor jack during this process, as even when empty, it is still heavy and bulky.

When the removable cross-member comes free, undo the straps that are hooked into it. The gas tank should now be sitting on the fixed cross-member. You can now work the fuel tank free and lower it out of the car.

To reinstall the tank, replace the metal straps, ensuring they run under the hoses. You can use duct tape to hold them in place while you work.

Frequently asked questions

Before removing the fuel tank, disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid any sparks while you work. Set your fire extinguisher nearby and drain all the fuel from the tank. You might need to siphon or pump out the gas, but if you remove the flexible fuel line from the fuel pump up in the engine bay, the gas will often drain right into a pan for you.

You will need a jack, a tool to insert into a hole in the back of the clamshell to lift the tire, and a pan to collect the drained fuel. You may also need pliers or a screwdriver to undo the hose clamps and remove the flex lines from the car.

The first step is to drop your spare tire. Your Corvette's spare tire is held up under the rear of the car in a clamshell-style holder. Insert the tool into a hole in the back of the clamshell to lift the tire a little while you loosen a bolt, and then lower the lever to set the tire down on the ground.

Disconnect the negative battery cable and drain the fuel tank.

Remove the left rear wheelhouse liner and both mufflers.

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