Fuel Tank

The automobile is known as a powerhouse of energy-this piece of machinery does not only possess parts that produce mechanical power, but also stores substances that are capable of creating high energy levels. The fuel tank can be considered as the vehicle's seat of power; without this tank, any auto won't be able to carry the fuel it needs for the long haul. In case your tank starts showing any sign of wear, which may include corrosion, you have to get it switched as soon as possible.

But how do you go about the search? With all the choices available out there, where do you start? This article can give you some tips on how to sift through the options and find the high-quality tank that perfectly matches your ride.

1. Check your vehicle's fuel tank specifications.

Every tank varies in shape, fuel storage capacity, and size. For example, a Chevrolet Suburban's fuel tank isn't the same as a Camaro's. Though both vehicles are from the same manufacturer, the storage capacity and size of their fuel tanks are different because the two vehicles differ in size. Tank locations for every model could also differ; some vehicles have tanks at the rear, while others install tanks on the sides or at the front. So before you purchase a replacement, get your ride's fuel tank specs to make selection easier: storage capacity, location, and dimensions (length, width, and height).

2. Perform research on the brands and tanks available in the market.

Now that you know your vehicle's tank specifications, you can narrow down the choices to certain product lines. The next thing you have to check is the set of features that comes with the different products. This includes material, construction, price, manufacturer, and warranty.

• Material
Tanks can be made of plastic, polyethylene, metal, polyurethane, steel, and galvanized steel. Fuel tanks crafted from steel and metal may be prone to corrosion, especially if they are regularly exposed to moisture. On the other hand, plastic, polyethylene, and polyurethane tanks provide longer service life because these are more resistant to rust.


• Price
Galvanized steel, steel, and metal fuel tanks cost a lot less than plastic, polyethylene, and polyurethane tanks. If you're the type who's willing to spend a lot for long-term performance, you should get the more expensive replacement. But if you're working with a limited budget, perhaps you can make do with a steel tank.


• Manufacturer
You can choose to get original parts to make sure that it really matches your vehicle's specs. The downside, however, is that original parts can be really pricey. Another option would be to check out OEMs. These brands (though not all of them are highly recognized) provide high-quality tanks that are constructed similarly to the original (some companies are even direct suppliers of the parts used by automakers).

Apart from functioning as storage of fuel, the fuel tank is the safety net of the vehicle-it keeps the fuel from being in contact with heated components and other sensitive auto systems that could cause fire or worse, an explosion. Be sure you're fuel tank is always at its best; if it shows any sign of leaking or wear and tear, replace it at once.

Difficulty: Moderate

Things you'll need:

• Replacement fuel tank
• Fire extinguisher
• Jack and two jack stands
• Screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets, and other hand tools
• Fuel container
• Fuel line
• Hand siphon pump
• Hose clamps
• Pry bar

Step 1: Keep a fire extinguisher near you just in case the replacement causes a fire. Make sure you use PPE (personal protective equipment) such as gloves while working. Work in a well-ventilated area; you'll be dealing with highly combustible material, so you should follow all precautions before starting. Raise your vehicle using the jack and the two stands.

Step 2: Locate your ride's fuel tank and see if it shows signs of leaks (check your owner's manual if you don't know where it is). Remove your fuel pump fuse, and then turn on the engine to relieve tank pressure and fuel system pressure. Afterwards, disconnect the battery cable from the negative terminal.

Step 3: Place a fuel container under the tank and start draining. Use the hand siphon pump and disconnect fuel lines if necessary. You can also use the drain plug if your vehicle's tank has one. Make sure it is drained completely.

Step 4: Remove all the components of your old fuel tank, including fuel hoses, hose clamps, straps, bolts, screws, and everything else that secures it on the system.

Step 5: Get your replacement fuel tank and assemble all of its components. To install it, follow these steps in reverse and re-attach all the components you took out.