How to Remove a Fuel Tank on a 1988 Jaguar XJ6

Although a Jaguar XJ6 gas tank seldom leaks, you should inspect the fuel tank and connections for signs of dampness if you detect the smell of gasoline coming from the back of your car; one or more of the flexible connector tubes may have deteriorated or fuel may be leaking from a loose gasoline filler neck. On the other hand, if the fuel is contaminated with water, the tank may have rusted through and sprung a leak. If this is the case, avoid fire hazards and wasted fuel by replacing the tank as soon as possible.

Instructions

1

Drain the gas tank by undoing the drain plug from the lower right corner of the gas tank with a box wrench if your particular model is fitted with a drain plug. If not, siphon of the fuel into an approved container using a siphoning kit with a mechanical starter bulb.

2

Loosen the fuel filler cap to relieve fuel tank pressure. Inspect the recess under the fuel filler cap. The fuel overflow line is clogged, if you notice pooled water. Clear the line by blowing it out with a low-pressure compressed air nozzle.

3

De-activate your radios anti-theft system with the correct code, if applicable. Disconnect the negative battery terminal, using the box-end portion of a combination wrench.

4

Position a hydraulic jack rated at 5 tons or more under the vehicle at the mid-point of the front cross member and lift the vehicle to the required height. Slide two sturdy axle stands under the forward jacking points on both sides of the chassis and carefully lower the vehicle onto the stands.

5

Repeat by jacking the rear of the vehicle up to the required height the same way and lowering it onto axle stands located at the rear jacking points on either side of the chassis.

6

Reach up from underneath the back of the vehicle and undo the hose clamp connecting the filler neck vent tube to the top of the fuel neck leading to the tank with a screwdriver. Slide the vent tube off the connector.

7

Remove the four fuel filler assembly bolts with a socket and a ratchet fitted with an extension bar. Slide the large rubber boot down the fuel tank filler neck.

8

Undo the bolts holding the the spare tire bracket to the bottom of the trunk, using a ratchet. Lift the assembly out and remove the spare tire.

9

Disconnect the flexible fuel lines connecting the metal fuel lines to the tank with the open-ended portions on pair of opposing combination wrenches.

10

Undo the hose clamps connecting the vapor return line and canister vent line from the fuel tank and slide the hoses from the metal pipes. Plug all open lines to prevent leakage and to stop air-born dust from contaminating the fuel system.

11

Remove the spring clips that retain the fuel lines to the fuel tank, using needle-nose pliers. Twist the connectors to loosen them from the grommets and pull the fuel lines out of the tank.

12

Have a helper support the tank and undo the retaining bolts from the fuel tank retaining straps with a ratchet.

13

Angle the fuel filler neck away from the body and carefully lower the tank from the vehicle.

14

Lift a new tank into place with the aid of a helper. Screw the retaining bolts into place with a ratchet and tighten firmly. Connect the fuel lines, vapor return line and canister vent line to the fuel tank. Re-install the spare tire, spare tire bracket and fuel filler assembly.

15

Insert a large funnel into the filler cap and carefully pour a gallon or two of gasoline into the tank. As a final precaution, wipe your hand across the bottom of the new tank to ensure that it remains dry.

16

Lower the vehicle to the ground and reconnect the battery to complete the procedure.