With some forms of modern fuel, such as diesel, a hole or fracture in your fuel tank is dangerous. However, if your car runs on petrol the problem could be explosive. The very first sign that you have issues with the fuel tank is puddles around your utility van after it has been parked. Alternatively you may notice that the fuel consumption on your car is higher than normal.

If you notice any of the above signs, it is imperative to replace the fuel tank immediately. You will need car jacks, spanner set, wrench set, hose clamps, and a fuel can. Here are the steps:

Drain the old tank         

Before installing the new fuel tank, you have to remove the old one. Drain the old tank completely by loosening the small stop valve, so the fuel runs out into the fuel can. But if the vehicle doesn’t have a fuel tank valve, you have to remove one of the fuel lines and use it to drain the tank.

Remove fuel lines

There should be two fuel lines going into the tank. The smaller line at the bottom directs the fuel into the engine, while the larger at the top is used for filling the tank. The third line is an air-line that allows for the decrease in pressure as the petrol travels through the tank. Detach all lines from the old tank.

Drop the suspension

If the old fuel tank can be removed without having to drop the rear suspension allowing you effortless access, you can simply move on to the next step. But if an axle is blocking the old tank, you have to disconnect the shocks and rest the rear suspension beam at the centre with a floor jack. Make sure you disconnect the brake lines too to avoid damaging them and gradually lower the whole assembly down to the floor.

Replace the old tank

Remove the metal straps held in place by the metal bolts. This is a relatively easy process that allows you to put the new tank into place, which is then attached by the same straps. You have to repeat the removal steps in reverse to ensure the lines are in place, before filling the car up with the appropriate fuel.

After replacing the fuel tank, fill it up and inspect thoroughly in order to check for any drips or leaks around the pipes and lines. Upgrading a fuel tank when it gets old is a must, even if it doesn’t give you trouble, as it eventually impacts fuel economy.