Fuel Delivery and Air Induction: Service and Repair

STANDARD PROCEDURE - DRAINING FUEL TANK

Two different procedures may be used to drain fuel tank (lowering tank or using Scan Tool).

The quickest draining procedure involves lowering the fuel tank.

WARNING: Release fuel system pressure before servicing fuel system components. Service vehicles in well ventilated areas and avoid ignition sources. Never smoke while servicing the vehicle. This may result in personal injury or death.

As an alternative procedure, the electric fuel pump may be activated allowing tank to be drained at fuel rail connection. Refer to scan tool for fuel pump activation procedures. Before disconnecting fuel line at fuel rail, release fuel pressure. Refer to the Fuel System Pressure Release Procedure in this group for procedures. Disconnect the fuel line at the fuel rail and remove the plastic retainer from the fuel rail. Take plastic retainer and install it back into the fuel line from body. Check the O-ring and make sure that it is in place and not damaged. Attach end of special test hose tool number 6539 at fuel line connection from the body line. Position opposite end of this hose tool to an approved gasoline draining station. Activate fuel pump and drain tank until empty. When done remove the special test hose tool number 6539 from the body line. Remove the plastic retainer from the special test hose tool number 6539 and reinstall it into the fuel line from the body. Check the O-ring and make sure that it is in place and not damaged. Install the fuel line to the fuel rail.

If electric fuel pump is not operating, tank must be lowered for fuel draining. Refer to following procedure:

1. Remove fuel filler cap.
2. Perform the Fuel System Pressure Release procedure.
3. Disconnect negative cable from battery.
4. Raise vehicle and support.
5. Certain models are equipped with a separate grounding wire (strap) connecting the fuel fill tube assembly to the body. Disconnect wire by removing screw.
6. Open fuel fill door and remove screws mounting fuel filler tube assembly to body. Do not disconnect rubber fuel fill or vent hoses from tank at this time.
7. Place a transmission jack under center of fuel tank. Apply a slight amount of pressure to fuel tank with transmission jack.
8. Remove fuel tank mounting straps.
9. Lower the tank just enough so that the filler tube fitting is the highest point of the fuel tank.
10. Remove filler tube from fuel tank. Tank will be drained through this fitting.

NOTE: Wrap shop towels around hoses to catch any gasoline spillage.

11. Drain fuel tank into holding tank or a properly labeled Gasoline safety container.

WARNING: Gasoline or gasoline vapors are highly flammable. A fire could occur if an ignition source is present. Never drain or store gasoline or diesel fuel in an open container, due to the possibility of fire or explosion. This may result in personal injury or death.

12. If fuel pump module removal is necessary, Fuel Pump Module - Removal.