Replacing Fuel Tank Seal: '07 Silverado Guide

If you're looking to replace the fuel tank seal on your 2007 Silverado, you're in the right place. This is a step-by-step process that requires some safety precautions and the right tools. Before you begin, ensure you have fuel-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and a Class B type fire extinguisher on hand. Gasoline is extremely flammable and carcinogenic, so take extra care when working on any part of the fuel system. Now, let's get started!

Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal

To disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal, you will need to follow these steps:

Firstly, locate the negative battery terminal. This will be clearly marked, usually with a '-' symbol or a black cover. The battery will be located in the engine bay of your 2007 Silverado. Ensure that you have the necessary tools for the job, including a wrench or socket set to loosen and tighten the terminal clamp.

Next, you will need to loosen the clamp on the negative terminal. Use your wrench or socket to loosen the clamp, but do not remove it completely just yet. It is important to always remove the negative terminal connection first to avoid any potential short circuits.

Once the clamp is loose, you can now carefully remove the cable from the terminal. Ensure that you do not let the cable touch any other metal parts of the engine, as this could cause a short circuit. You may need to wiggle the cable gently to detach it fully.

Now that the cable is disconnected, you can move it to one side, ensuring it is away from any metal components. It is a good idea to cover the terminal with electrical tape or an insulated cap to further reduce the risk of accidental contact.

Finally, you can now proceed with your fuel tank seal replacement, safe in the knowledge that the power supply to the vehicle's electrical system is interrupted, reducing the risk of sparks or short circuits.

Remember, it is always important to take appropriate safety precautions when working on any vehicle, especially when dealing with electrical systems and flammable liquids.

Relieve the system fuel pressure at the Schrader valve

To relieve the system fuel pressure at the Schrader valve on a 2007 Silverado, follow these steps:

Firstly, locate the Schrader valve on the fuel rail in the engine compartment. This is where you will relieve the fuel pressure. Before starting work on your Silverado, standard safety precautions should be followed. Ensure you are wearing safety glasses and fuel-resistant gloves, as gasoline is extremely flammable and carcinogenic.

Now, to relieve the pressure, you will need to disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. Detailed instructions on how to do this can be found in Chapter 5, Section 1 of the Haynes manual.

After you have disconnected the battery, you can then relieve the system fuel pressure at the Schrader valve. Again, detailed instructions on how to do this can be found in the Haynes manual, in Chapter 4, Section 2.

Once the pressure has been relieved, you can then equalize the tank pressure by removing the fuel filler cap.

At this point, you can continue with raising and supporting the truck on jack stands and removing the fuel tank, as outlined in the Haynes manual, Chapter 4, Section 5.

Remember to take extra precautions when working on any part of the fuel system, and always have a Class B type fire extinguisher on hand.

Remove the fuel tank by disconnecting the filler neck, filler EVAP line, and fuel supply line

To remove the fuel tank, you will need to first raise and support the truck on jack stands. This will give you access to the underside of the vehicle and the fuel tank.

The next step is to disconnect the filler neck, filler EVAP line, and fuel supply line. This will involve carefully loosening and detaching the relevant hoses, pipes, and fittings. Place a shop towel over any fuel connections to absorb any residual fuel that may leak out.

Once these connections have been disconnected, you will need to support the tank and loosen the fuel tank strap bolts. This will allow you to lower the tank enough to disconnect the electrical connections to the fuel pump and sending unit.

It is important to work cautiously and follow safety precautions when performing any work on the fuel system. Ensure you are wearing appropriate protective gear, including fuel-resistant gloves and safety glasses.

Disconnect the EVAP vent line, fuel tank vent line, and fuel supply line quick-connect fittings

To disconnect the EVAP vent line, fuel tank vent line, and fuel supply line quick-connect fittings, you will need to take the following steps:

Firstly, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area and take the necessary safety precautions as gasoline is extremely flammable. It is recommended to work with less than a quarter of a tank of fuel, and always mop up any spills immediately. Wear fuel-resistant gloves and safety glasses for this procedure.

Begin by disconnecting the cable from the negative battery terminal. Then, relieve the system fuel pressure at the Schrader valve on the fuel rail in the engine compartment. Equalize the tank pressure by removing the fuel filler cap.

Now, raise and support the truck on jack stands. The next step is to remove the fuel tank by first disconnecting the filler neck, filler EVAP line, and fuel supply line. Support the tank and loosen the fuel tank strap bolts.

At this point, you can disconnect the EVAP vent line, the fuel tank vent line, and the fuel supply line quick-connect fittings from the fuel pump/fuel level sending unit mounting flange. You may need to use a pair of large water pump pliers to carefully loosen any tight connections.

Make sure to mark the orientation of the fuel pump in relation to the fuel tank to ensure correct realignment during installation. It is also important to clean the connectors and lines before reassembling them to avoid any dirt or debris causing issues.

Finally, inspect the O-ring seal for the fuel pump mounting flange and replace it if it shows any signs of damage or deterioration.

Use large water pump pliers to unscrew the fuel pump lock ring

To replace the fuel tank seal on a 2007 Silverado, you will need to access the fuel pump lock ring at the top of the tank. Before beginning this procedure, ensure that there is less than a quarter of a tank of fuel in the tank. It is also important to note that gasoline is extremely flammable, so take extra precautions when working on any part of the fuel system.

Now, to unscrew the fuel pump lock ring using large water pump pliers, follow these steps:

• Put on safety gear: Wear fuel-resistant gloves and safety glasses, and ensure you have a Class B type fire extinguisher on hand.
• Prepare your workspace: Mop up any spills immediately and do not store fuel-soaked rags where they could ignite.
• Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal.
• Relieve the system fuel pressure at the Schrader valve on the fuel rail in the engine compartment, and then equalize tank pressure by removing the fuel filler cap.
• Raise and support the truck on jack stands.
• Lower the fuel tank: Disconnect the filler neck, filler EVAP line, and fuel supply line. Support the tank and loosen the fuel tank strap bolts.
• Disconnect electrical connections: Lower the tank just enough to disconnect the electrical connections to the fuel pump and sending unit.
• Detach additional lines: Disconnect the EVAP vent line, fuel tank vent line fitting, and fuel supply line quick-connect fittings from the fuel pump/fuel level sending unit mounting flange.
• Unscrew the fuel pump lock ring: Using large water pump pliers, turn the lock ring counterclockwise to unscrew it. If the lock ring is too tight, use a hammer and a brass punch to carefully tap it loose. Do not use a steel punch, as it could create sparks and cause an explosion.

By following these steps and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can safely unscrew the fuel pump lock ring using large water pump pliers when replacing the fuel tank seal on your 2007 Silverado.

Frequently asked questions