Removing The Fuel Tank From A 1970 Opel Gt

how to remove the fuel tank from 1970 opel gt

Removing the fuel tank from a 1970 Opel GT is no easy feat. First, you'll need to remove the spare tire package shelf, the braces for the spare tire hold down, and the filler neck hose. Then, you'll need to remove the four bolts on either side of the tank flange, and the steel line from the bottom of the tank. It's important to have a catch or drain pan underneath to collect the fuel. Next, disconnect the vent lines and the fuel sending unit wire. Finally, you may need to remove one of the braces the tank sits on, which can be accessed through the rear wheel wells. The whole process should take around 3-4 hours.

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Removing the spare tire package shelf and braces

To remove the fuel tank from a 1970 Opel GT, you must first remove the spare tire package shelf and the braces that support it. This will grant you access to the fuel tank.

Start by locating the spare tire package shelf in the rear of the car, where the back seats would be. You will need to remove the shelf and its supporting braces. This may involve unscrewing bolts or brackets, so have the appropriate tools on hand. Be careful not to damage any surrounding components or the shelf itself, as you may need to reinstall it later.

Once the shelf is removed, you will be able to access the fuel tank and the hold-down bolts and plates that secure it in place. There are two bolts on each side of the tank. Additionally, you will need to remove the filler neck hose, which can be tricky. One method involves sliding a thin, long screwdriver between the steel tube and the hose to break the seal, allowing the hose to slide off.

With the spare tire package shelf, braces, and filler neck hose removed, you will have better access to the fuel tank and can proceed with the next steps of the fuel tank removal process. These steps include removing the bolts on either side of the tank flange, disconnecting the fuel lines and sending unit wire, and draining or siphoning the gas from the tank.

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Disconnecting the filler neck hose

Once you have access to the tank, you will need to disconnect the filler neck hose. In some Opel GT models, the filler neck hose can be particularly challenging to remove. One effective method is to slide a very thin, long screwdriver between the steel tube and the hose, breaking the seal all around. This will allow the hose to slide off. If you plan to reuse the hose, it is recommended to apply commercial-grade Vaseline to make it easier to slide back on.

Another approach to removing the filler neck hose is to douse it with WD-40 several times before working the coupling loose. This method may require patience, as it can be a tedious process.

It is worth noting that some Opel GT owners have reported issues with the fuel sock, which is located inside the tank. It is advisable to remove the fuel sock before cleaning the tank. This can be done using the tool and method described in a thread by Otto on the Opel GT forum. Additionally, ensure you have a catch or drain pan to collect any remaining fuel when disconnecting the filler neck hose and removing the tank.

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Removing bolts

To remove the bolts when taking out the fuel tank of a 1970 Opel GT, you will first need to remove the spare tire package shelf, the braces for the spare tire hold down, and the filler neck hose. You can do this by sliding a very thin, long screwdriver between the steel tube and the hose, breaking the seal.

Once you have removed these components, you will be able to access the tank and remove the four bolts on either side of the tank flange. You may need to use a deep well socket to remove the bolts. In addition, there are two hold-down bolts on each side of the tank that will need to be removed.

If you are having trouble accessing the bolts, you may need to look inside each rear fender well, where you will find a series of bolts under the undercoating, dirt, and grime that must be removed to get the tank out.

Finally, you will need to remove the steel line from the bottom of the tank. This can be done by unscrewing it, but be careful as this area can be fragile.

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Disconnecting the fuel sending unit wire

Firstly, locate the fuel sending unit. This can be a challenging task in itself. You will need to remove the spare tire package shelf and the braces for the spare tire hold down. Once you have accessed the rear spare tire area, you will find the fuel sending unit.

Next, disconnect the wire connected to the fuel sending unit. This step requires careful handling to avoid any damage to the wire or the unit. Ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment before proceeding.

After disconnecting the wire, it is important to test the fuel gauge to identify any potential issues. Touch the wire to ground and turn on the ignition. Observe the fuel gauge reading. If it reads full, it indicates that the issue is in the tank or the sending unit itself.

At this point, you can proceed to remove the fuel sending unit by taking out the tube and inspecting for any signs of damage or corrosion. It is recommended to test the resistance across the solder connections using an ohm meter. This will help determine if there are any issues with the electrical connections.

Finally, address any issues identified during the testing phase. For example, if corrosion is present, you may need to clean and treat the affected areas before reassembling the unit. Ensure that all connections are secure and properly insulated before considering the job complete.

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Removing the fuel sock

To remove the fuel sock from your 1970 Opel GT, you will first need to remove the fuel tank. Start by taking out the spare tire package shelf and the braces for the spare tire hold down. Once you have access to the tank, remove the filler neck hose, the four bolts on either side of the tank flange, and the steel line from the bottom of the tank. Disconnect the vent lines and the fuel sending unit wire.

Now that the tank is out, you can remove the fuel sock. One method is to use a tool such as a modified hacksaw blade, ground down and bent to make a right angle with a serrated edge. This can be used to cut the sock around the bottom where it attaches to the tank fitting. The sock can then be retrieved through the bottom fitting or through the sending unit hole at the top.

Alternatively, you can try using a flashlight and a long piece of 3/16" stainless tubing, twisting and shaking the tank to dislodge the sock. It may also be possible to remove the outlet fitting and replace it with a larger one to make removal easier.

Keep in mind that removing the fuel sock is easier once the tank is out, and you may want to consider replacing it with a new one rather than attempting to clean and reinstall the old one.

Frequently asked questions

To remove the fuel tank, you must first remove the spare tire package shelf and the braces for the spare tire hold down. Once you can access the tank, you can remove the filler neck hose, the four bolts on either side of the tank flange, and the steel line from the bottom of the tank. You may also need to remove one of the braces the tank sits on, which can be accessed through the rear wheel wells.

Removing the filler neck hose can be challenging. One method is to slide a very thin, long screwdriver between the steel tube and the hose, breaking the seal. You can then reuse the hose by applying some commercial-grade Vaseline to make it easier to slide back on.

The fuel sock is a nylon screen inside the tank that can become plugged solid. It is recommended to remove it before cleaning the tank. To remove it, you will need to access the inside of the tank, as it is located by the outlet.

It is important to have a catch or drain pan underneath the tank when removing the steel line, as this will drain the remaining fuel. You should also disconnect the vent lines and the fuel sending unit wire.

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