How to Replace Gas Fuel Tank 98-12 Ford Ranger

Summary

In this video, Mike Lemoine from 1A Auto guides viewers through the step-by-step process of removing and replacing a gas tank on a 2001 Ford Ranger. He demonstrates how to disconnect the fuel system, lower the gas tank safely, and reinstall the new tank. The tutorial covers the necessary tools, safety precautions, and the specific steps needed, including disconnecting electrical connectors, removing straps, and handling hoses. Lemoine also offers tips for those working with rusted bolts and emphasizes the importance of fuel system priming after the repair.

Takeaways

• 😀 Disconnect the battery before starting any work to avoid electrical accidents.
• 😀 Relieve fuel pressure by running the vehicle until it dies and cranking it a few times to ensure there is no remaining fuel pressure.
• 😀 Use the proper tools, such as an 8mm and 13mm socket and ratchet, to remove fasteners and components securely.
• 😀 Always raise and support the vehicle safely using a lift, jack, or jack stands before working underneath it.
• 😀 Be careful when removing the skid plate and gas tank straps, as they may be rusty and require extra effort.
• 😀 Support the weight of the gas tank with a screw jack or floor jack to avoid injury or damage when lowering it.
• 😀 Take precautions when disconnecting the fuel pump and electrical connectors, and ensure all clips and hoses are removed carefully.
• 😀 After removing the old gas tank, slide it out of the vehicle carefully, ensuring no damage to other components.
• 😀 Reinstall the new gas tank by positioning it over the crossmember first and securing it in place.
• 😀 When reattaching the filler neck hoses, ensure they are tightened securely to prevent leaks.
• 😀 Reprime the fuel system after depressurizing it by turning the key on and off several times before starting the vehicle.

Q & A

Why is it important to disconnect the fuel pump relay before removing the gas tank?

Disconnecting the fuel pump relay ensures there is no fuel pressure in the system, reducing the risk of fuel spraying when disconnecting hoses and connectors.

What tool is recommended to loosen the battery terminal clamp?

An 8 millimeter socket and ratchet or a wrench can be used to loosen the terminal clamp on the battery.

Can this gas tank replacement be done without a lift?

Yes, the repair can be performed with jack stands or even without raising the vehicle at all, depending on the available space and comfort level of the person doing the repair.

What should you do if the captured nut on the back of the skid plate breaks loose?

If the captured nut breaks loose, you may need to secure it using a 15 millimeter wrench to hold it in place while removing the rest of the skid plate bolts.

What’s the purpose of using a screw jack or floor jack to support the gas tank?

A screw jack or floor jack is used to support the weight of the gas tank while lowering or reinstalling it, ensuring safety and preventing damage to the tank during the removal process.

Why should safety glasses be worn during this process?

Safety glasses should be worn to protect your eyes from any fuel that may spray when disconnecting the fuel pump or other components, even if fuel pressure has been relieved.

What should be done if the filler neck hoses are difficult to remove due to rust or corrosion?

Use a pair of pliers to gently work the hoses back and forth, loosening any rust or corrosion without applying excessive pressure to avoid damaging the hoses.

What is the best way to remove and reconnect the electrical connectors on the fuel pump?

For connectors with larger clips, pry them out carefully, while for thinner clips, push the colored strip in and pry up. Ensure not to break the clips to avoid issues when reconnecting them.

How can you ensure that the gas tank straps are securely reinstalled?

Once the straps are hooked in place, use your jack or screw jack to raise the tank to its proper height. Then, use a socket and ratchet to tighten the 13 millimeter bolts securing the straps.

What steps are required to re-prime the fuel system after depressurizing it?

To re-prime the fuel system, turn the key on and wait for the fuel pump to shut off. Turn the key off and repeat this process three times before attempting to crank the vehicle.