
If you're looking to remove the fuel tank from your 1983 Mercedes, there are a few steps you'll need to follow. Firstly, it's important to disconnect the battery ground cable and release any pressure in the fuel tank by removing the cap. Next, you'll need to drain the fuel tank by carefully pumping out the fuel. You should then remove the fuel feed line and the fuel return line, being sure to collect any remaining fuel. At this point, you can unscrew the bolts holding the fuel tank in place and begin to wiggle the tank out. It's worth noting that there may be additional steps or variations depending on the specific model of your Mercedes, so it's always a good idea to refer to a trusted repair manual or seek the advice of a qualified mechanic.
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What You'll Learn

Drain the fuel tank
Draining the fuel tank of an 83 Mercedes is a challenging task that requires careful attention to safety precautions. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Release Pressure and Disconnect the Battery:
Before starting, it is crucial to release the pressure in the fuel tank by removing the fuel cap. Disconnect the battery ground cable to ensure there is no power running through the vehicle during the procedure.
Prepare the Vehicle:
Jack up the car using jack stands and place a 5-gallon bucket underneath the vehicle. This will allow you to access the fuel tank and collect any drained fuel. Ensure that the car is securely supported and stable to prevent any accidents.
Locate the main fuel hose that feeds the fuel pump. Carefully disconnect this hose and allow the fuel to drain into the bucket. It is important to do this slowly and carefully to avoid spills and to ensure that no residual fuel remains in the tank. You may need to use a pump to remove all the fuel.
Remove Related Components:
Once the fuel is completely drained, you can proceed to remove the components connected to the fuel tank. This includes the fuel gauge sender, the fuel expansion tank, the fuel feed line, and the fuel return line. Collect any remaining fuel from these components and seal the connections.
Check for Contamination:
Before reinstalling a new fuel tank or performing further repairs, it is a good idea to check the drained fuel for any signs of contamination. Look for discolouration, rust, or other impurities that may indicate a problem with the fuel system.
Dispose of Drained Fuel Properly:
Finally, properly dispose of the drained fuel at an approved facility or recycling centre. Do not pour it down the drain or into the environment, as it can cause pollution and harm to wildlife.
Draining the fuel tank of an 83 Mercedes can be a challenging task, and it is important to prioritize safety and environmental considerations throughout the process. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties, it is always best to consult a professional mechanic or Mercedes specialist.
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Disconnect the battery
To disconnect the battery of an 83 Mercedes, follow these steps:
First, ensure that the ignition key is off and extracted from the car. This is an important safety precaution to prevent any accidents. Next, locate the battery in the trunk of your Mercedes. You will find the main battery in the trunk, likely in a compartment or under a cover.
Now, you will need to disconnect the battery cables. Start by disconnecting the negative terminal cable from the starter battery, leaving the battery in place. Then, disconnect the negative terminal cable from the main battery. Finally, disconnect the positive battery cable from the main battery.
It is important to note that disconnecting the battery may cause the loss of certain settings, such as electric windows and sunroofs, which may need to be re-initialised. Additionally, some Mercedes models may have specific procedures to disconnect the battery without disrupting the alternator and retaining electronics memory settings. Always refer to your owner's manual or seek advice from a qualified Mercedes technician if you are unsure.
Once the battery is disconnected, you can proceed with the next steps of removing the fuel tank, such as releasing pressure in the fuel tank and draining the fuel.
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Remove the trunk floor
To remove the trunk floor of a 1983 Mercedes, you will first need to drain the fuel tank. Jack up the car and place a 5-gallon bucket underneath. Remove the main fuel hose that feeds the fuel pump and drain the tank.
Next, you will need to remove the forward cover inside the trunk. Use a 10mm socket to remove the cover and peel back the carpet just enough to access the bolt heads. There are four bolts that hold the tank in place. Remove these bolts.
There are also hoses under the car that need to be removed. Locate the vapor chamber at the top of the tank and remove the bolts. You may find that the bolts for the vapor chamber are in the convertible top boot area.
Now, you can remove the gas cap and wiggle the tank out of place. Be prepared for other obstacles that may prevent the removal of the tank.
Once the tank is removed, you can access the trunk floor and begin to remove it. It may be stuck in place, so use a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry it up. Work your way around the edges of the trunk floor until it is completely removed.
Note: It is important to take safety precautions when performing any work on your vehicle. Always disconnect the battery ground cable before beginning and be cautious of any fuel that may remain in the tank or lines.
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Remove the forward cover inside the trunk
To remove the forward cover inside the trunk of your 1983 Mercedes, you will need a 10mm socket. First, peel back the carpet in the trunk just enough to access the bolt heads. You do not need to remove the carpet completely. There are four bolts holding the cover in place, which you can now remove with your 10mm socket.
Before removing the cover, you will need to drain the fuel tank. Jack up the car and place a 5-gallon bucket underneath. Remove the main fuel hose that feeds the fuel pump and drain the tank. You should also disconnect the battery ground cable and release the pressure in the fuel tank by removing the gas cap.
Once the cover is removed, you will be able to access the fuel tank. There are four bolts holding the tank in place, as well as hoses under the car that need to be removed. There is also a vapor chamber at the top of the tank, secured with bolts that can be found in the convertible top boot area.
Remember to take appropriate safety precautions throughout the process, as there is a risk of accident when working with fuel and car batteries.
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Remove the bolts holding the tank in place
To remove the bolts holding the fuel tank in place, you will first need to drain the tank. Jack up the car and place a 5-gallon bucket underneath to catch the drained fuel. Next, remove the main fuel hose that feeds the fuel pump. You can do this by jacking up the car and placing a bucket underneath to catch any fuel.
Now, you will need to access the bolts. First, remove the forward cover inside the trunk with a 10mm socket and peel back the carpet to expose the bolt heads. There are four bolts that hold the tank in place. You may need to wiggle the tank to loosen it from the bolts.
It is important to note that there may be other components preventing the removal of the tank, so always refer to a service manual or seek professional advice if you are unsure. Additionally, always take the necessary safety precautions when working with fuel and ensure that the area is well-ventilated.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are the steps to remove the fuel tank from your 83 Mercedes:
- Disconnect the ground connecting line on the battery.
- Drain the fuel tank.
- Remove the trunk floor and intermediate shelf.
- Pull off the coupler for the fuel gauge.
- Remove the forward cover inside the trunk.
- Remove the bolts holding the tank in place.
- Remove the hoses under the car.
- Remove the vapor chamber at the top of the tank.
- Remove the gas cap.
- Wiggle the tank out of place and remove it from the trunk.
No, it is not necessary to remove the fuel tank to clean it. You can try draining the tank and cleaning it with a radiator shop or coating it with a special sealant if it is rusty.
To drain the fuel tank, carefully pump out the fuel so that no residual fuel remains in the tank.
Older Mercedes fuel tanks may have issues with contamination and rust. The braided outlet fuel hose may rot and fail, leading to fuel leakage.
Pay attention to safety precautions to avoid accidents. Release the pressure in the fuel tank by removing the cap and checking the seal. Only remove the fuel gauge sender if you are exchanging the fuel tank.











































