Fuel Sending Unit Question

[astronot]

My 74 has only one tank, stock capacity. The sending unit has been bad since I bought it (diagnosed by method in previous topic). My question is this: How low does the fuel level have to be before I can remove the sending unit? Can there be a few gallons left in the tank without my having to drain the tank completely?

 

[Bully Bob]

It's kind of a "best guess". You can see the bottom of the hole for the sending unit sets about 3" above the tank bottom. That's room for a couple gallons, at least, I would think.

However, parking on a sloped driveway (wheels blocked), or jack the front up, adds some extra security.

---On one rig----

I have a spare elect. fuel pump (& some hose). Due to a 1/2 full tank.., I pumped fuel to a GI fuel can. Didn't want to wait 'til fuel burned off.

GOLDEN RULE

Never de-fuel an airplane/vehicle in the hangar/garage.

 

[Seabronc]

The most danger of explosion is from fumes so if you have to tap on the locking ring, use a brass rod, steel may make a spark. Believe it or not an empty tank with just a little bit of gas is more dangerous than a full tank. In either case you need to proceed with caution. Most people including myself have gotten away with changing the sending unit without incident, but keep in mind you have a bomb.

It may sound like overkill, but it wouldn't hurt to wear some protective gear like a non flammable coat, face shield, and leather gloves.

Good luck,

>-

 

[astronot]

Hmmm. Good advice guys, thanks! I think I may just go ahead and disconnect the line at the bottom and drain the tank. It will still be full of fumes, but empty of fuel.