This is for those of you who've dropped your tank to do the fuel vent mod or FASS install or whatever. How the heck do you remove the fuel clips? And how low can I drop the tank? I'd like to take the strap bolts off all the way and lower it with a jack, but I'm afraid I'd damage a fuel line...?. I've got an 05' shortbed. I can't get my head up between the driveshaft and the tank to see what I'm doing. From the rear wheelwell, I can see but can only get one hand on the fitting, then I can't really see much after that. And tips/tricks will be appreciated greatly.
BTW- I have the fass instructions and the vent mod instructions, but unless my arms and hands and head shrinks, I can't see me doing this on my own.

 

Let's see, once you undo the bolts holding the straps they can be lifted up and out of their holders. Before you actually drop the tank though, you must disconnect all the connectors at the fuel sender. When I did it, I loosened the bolts holding the straps all the way to the bottom, which allowed me to lower the tank slightly at which time I was able to reach in from the wheel well and undo the fuel supply line, return line and electrical connector. It's not easy by any means, but it is definitely feasible if you have some patience. The hardest for me was disconnecting the fuel lines as you can only get one hand in there. I actually used a piece of wood to wedge against one of the clips on the fuel disconnect so that I could push the other clip while pulling on the line. Once you have the sending unit disconnected, you can drop the tank easily. Just make sure either it is very close to empty or you have something to keep it stabilized, because it is very unstable when the fuel starts sloshing around as you lower it.
Good luck.
mishkaya

 

Use a set of tie down straps to suspend the tank on, that way you can take the jack out of the way

They work great and you avoid the whole fuel sloshing from one end to the other thing and you don't lose control of the tank.

 

When I did mine I forced my way into the wheel well head and all. I almost got stuck but it gave me the extra inches to reach the lines. its still a pita but doable. if I had to do it again I would remove the wheel then it shpuld be a piece of cake. you will never reach them from the bottom. losen the straps so the tank drops a little then remove the wheel and it should be fairly easy to reach then. you have to twist the lines until it lines up just right then it will pop right off. and yes i know its not as easy as it sounds. keep trying you will get it!!!!

 

If you have the means, unbolting and removing the bed is an option. Then you don't have to drop the tank!!!! Not trying to be a smart a$$ either.

 

Just a thought.

4 small bolts and the rear section of the driveshaft would come out if that would help. Can't remember if that would do any good or not. My truck has a two peice but can't remember which part is in the way of tank.

 

I'm thinking raising the bed would make it easier, if you have a way to lift it.
Maby rig up some straps and a hoist??