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Everything About Car Fuel Tank

The fuel tank is a reservoir that keeps the fuel supply while also help keep the temperature below the flash threshold. The fuel tank is also used to dissipate heat generated by the fuel that is returned from the engine. Read along to understand more about your car’s Fuel Tank to understand its working mechanism better.

What Is A Car Fuel Tank?

A fuel tank is a safe container for flammable fluids. This term applies to the part of an engine system in which the fuel is stored and propelled (fuel pump) or released (pressurized gas) into the car engine. The fuel tanks would differ in size and complexity from the small plastic tank of a butane lighter to the multi-chambered cryogenic space shuttle external tank.

How Does My Car Fuel Tank Work?

Searching for some information about working a car fuel tank? In that case, all you have to do is keep on reading further. 

There is a full spout in the fuel tank that is filled with fuel. The fuel spout is connected to the filler neck of the fuel tank. It is equipped with a check valve or release valve so that the fuel can be allowed to go into the tank to restore the air inside the tank. Now when the tank is full, and there is no air remaining, then the pressure signals the fuel station pump to stop sending fuel. Now once the fluid is inside the tank, then the mechanical float that reads fuel level would be adjusted and then sucked from the tank on demand by the fuel pump.

How To Choose The Right Car Fuel Tank?

What Are The Common Car Fuel Tank Problems?

Some frequent problems with fuel tanks are as follows:

  1. Rust in Fuel Tank - We are all aware that water and fuel both do not mix and just because water is denser than fuel, water rests at the bottom of the fuel tank. The presence of water for a long time would give rise to rust. The process of rusting is accelerated if there are ridges as well as sharp edges in the fuel tank. Rust can also start extending to other parts of the fuel line.
  2. Failure in the fuel pump - If there is a failure in the car fuel pump, then you will have to replace it as it is a non-serviceable part. There are a lot of problems which can be caused due by a failing pump like your car engine can start cranking but will not start. You'll probably notice unexpected shaking at highway speeds or clunky acceleration before it reaches that stage.
  3. Defects in the fuel injectors - The gasoline is sprayed into the combustion chamber by the fuel injectors. If they become unclean, blocked, or leak, you may encounter a variety of issues. The most prevalent symptoms are a sluggish idle and a lack of performance. However, you can end up with a knocking or non-starting engine. You can clean and get your car fuel injectors serviced as per your requirement. If you are having trouble driving, then your mechanic should surely have a look at them.
  4. Dirt in the fuel filter - A fuel filter is installed in the fuel system to remove contaminants from the gasoline, keeping the engine and fuel injectors clean. While changing fuel filters used to be very simple, many new cars now have them located inside the gas tank alongside the pump. If you find out that your car fuel filter is clogged, then it will restrict the flow of gasoline to the engine, leading the car to suddenly lose speed or power or it can also cause a jerking motion when you will try to accelerate. Make sure to ask your mechanic when the best time is to replace your car's fuel filter.

Which Tools Do I Need To Repair My Car Fuel Tank?

Do you want to repair your Fuel Tank? If yes, then you surely need some tools to meet the demand of your car body structures. There is no need to worry, as we are here to help you out. Have a look at the tools below which you will need while repairing your Fuel Tank.

  • Fire extinguisher
  • New fuel tank
  • Fuel line
  • Hose clamps
  • Floor jack
  • Wrenches
  • Sockets
  • Normal Hand Tools

Which Top Brands Fuel Tank Parts Should I Choose?

Searching for a specific brand for your Fuel Tank? In that case you have arrived at the correct place. All you have to do is have a look below:

  • Spectra Premium Industries Fuel Tank And Parts
  • Dorman (Oe Solutions) Fuel Tank And Parts
  • Russell Fuel Tank And Parts
  • Blue Streak (Hygrade Motor) Fuel Tank And Parts
  • Aeroquip Fuel Tank And Parts
  • Nos Fuel Tank And Parts

To know more about the top brand Car Fuel Tank, visit our “Which Brand Fuel Tank Should I Choose?” section.

What Are The Steps Of Changing My Car Fuel Tank?

Keen to know about the procedure of changing the Fuel Tank? Well, we have simplified the entire procedure for you:

Step 1

First, the vehicle should be parked in a well-ventilated area and then the back of the car should be raised by using a jack and then carefully supported on jack stands.

Step 2

After that, the gas filler cap should be removed to relieve car fuel tank pressure as well as the fuel system pressure.

Step 3

Then the car hood should be opened up and then the cable from the negative terminal of the battery should be disconnected.

Step 4

The fuel tank should be emptied into an approved gas container by utilizing a hand-siphon pump as per the requirements. There are some automobile models where there is a drain plug on the fuel tank.

Step 5

Just be sure that the component assemblies should not be in the way you would lower the tank. If it is needed, then unscrew and move aside or remove the parts. Just be sure that the screws should be in a safe place and make a note of the real location of the components.

Step 6

The jack should be pulled underneath the gas tank. Then raise it and then a piece of woodblock should be placed between the jack’s point of support and the fuel tank. This would help in lowering down the gas tank.

Step 7

The fuel pump electrical connector should be unplugged and then the clamps securing the fuel hoses should be disconnected.

Step 8

The bolt or nut from one end of each of the two metal straps should be removed. Some tanks are secured by bolts going through the tank flange.

Step 9

Then the jack should be lowered down gradually, by making sure that the tank is loose. Then the tank should be removed from the car. After that, the new tank should be placed on top of the jack so that the unit can be raised gradually. Then connect the hoses and electrical connectors. 

If you are still confused about which type of car fuel tank you should buy, then you can visit our The Ultimate Fuel Tank Buying Guide. You should always look for the warning signs of a bad fuel tank and replace them at the earliest you can. With us, you can find a fuel tank at the most economical costs.

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FAQ
The majority of vehicles have a single fuel tank at the back. The fuel tank can be located at the rear left or right-hand side of the vehicle and in rare cases, the fuel tank is also present at the front of your vehicle.
If it's a metal tank, that's been in a car accident or has massive rust holes, it needs to be replaced. If the fuel tank is plastic, it must be replaced if it has been damaged in a car accident or has a major split in it. Replace your car gas tank if you are facing issues like corrosion inside the gas tank, dented or damaged gas tank, leakage in the gas tank, or if there is a smell of gasoline surrounding your car.
Yes. Auxiliary fuel tanks can be added to the rear frame region of some vehicles to improve fuel capacity. Switches can be added to change between the tanks. Because most cars don't have enough room for these tanks, they're mostly seen on trucks.
It is easily accessible in some cars, and changing it takes a minimum of time, such as 1 hour. In some automobiles, you'll have to remove the exhaust system, rear suspension, unhook the filler pipe, and different feel and vent lines, which may be a real pain and take several hours.
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John Framigllia
Technical Writer
Our technical writer is known for simplifying automotive parts and services. Intuitive with various vehicles and manufacturers, he knows how to simplify complicated problems.