Replacing Fuel Tank Sending unit

[richgod]

I just picked up a new fuel tank sending unit from my dealer. They were unable to tell me if I had quick connects on the fuel lines, needed special tools or gaskets, etc to do this job. (Last one of these I did was on a '78 Chevy Van gasser. )

The part they provided me looks like it bolts/screws onto the in-tank unit. White plastic part at the top has 3 spade lugs for electrical connections, and two bolt holes, then the float. It is about 7" long to the bottom of the float.

They DID give me a print out of the exploded view diagram.

Any 'special tricks' I should know before I drop the tank in my driveway and have no transportation??!!

I did a search in the 1st gen forums and couldn't find any references.

'93 D250 LE, Long Wheelbase, extended cab, 30 gallon tank, CTD all stock.



Thanks.

Richard, Raleigh, NC

 

[btoscano]

Special tools are not required even if you have quick disconnects. You just have to pinch the clips together if you do not have any special tools. I have quick disconnects and don't use any special tools other than patience. You will need a way to get the big nut off the top of the tank if it is too tight to use your hands. I used a strap wrench. When I did mine I removed the bed with the help of my neighbor and my tractors front end loader. I have also dropped the tank. Dropping the tank is easier if you are doing it one-man.



Brian

 

[GIT-R-DONE]

Having the bed off is the best way, if possible. SOOOOO much easier than struggling underneath trying to get your (my) fat fingers in there. :-laf

 

[Steve Graham]

I did that on my 92 several years ago. You do not have to remove the fuel tank, just use as much as you can feel safe about with out running out of fuel. Lower the tank, unscrewing the mounts and fairly soon you'll have room to remove the old unit and able to install the new.

 

[richgod]

Sending unit in

Thanks for the tips guys! Took me about 2. 5 hours in the drive, by myself. I made a 'sling' out of three tie-down straps to catch and hold the tank after I took the mounting brackets loose, and lower it down slowly. The quick connects came off easily with the assistance a pair of lightweight needle nose pliers. I found that when the tank was replaced after a wreck in '95 the dealer put the gasket/lockring on crooked. The gasket wasn't fully seated, and the lockring was 'all cattywampussed' three threads showing on one side, none on the other, and the gasket sitting up about 1/4" from flush. Hmmm... maybe THAT is why I had fuel spills so easily when I topped it off...



At any rate, Thanks for the advice. T'weren't too bad of a job after all!

Got-R-Done!



next is carpet for the interior (getting kinda 'funky'), and later in 2-3 months, new coil springs (sagging front end), and ball joints. The fun never ends...



Richard

 

[Dman]

What's a sending unit worth now? Last I priced one they were over $100. 00.

My gauge has not worked for years now!

 

[richgod]

Dollars

Mine was $57 at the Dealer... had to pick it up the next morning, not a stock item here.