I bought a new fuel sending unit for my 89 pickup ($ 104.00) from the dealer. What is the easiest way to depressurize the sytem so I can drop the tank. I do not have enough room to get at the fuel pump wires while the tank is hooked up? I also do not want to bend the fuel lines while dropping the tank!

 

It might be easier to tilt the bed or remove it. just make sure to leave a couple bolts partly threaded in on the opposite side, so the bed doesn't slide if tilting it. This is how I done it on a full size chevy and it worked well. You can use a jack on the frame to lift it after you get it tilted .

 

Remove the fuel filler cap. On a warm day (in short supply in December in Washington) the fuel vapors can put a fair amount of pressure in the tank.

You'll still have pressure in the fuel line itself, but there's not much you can do about it. Where ever you open a line to relieve the pressure you'll have to replace the seals (crush washers), and you'll lose a little bit of fuel. So you might as well release the pressure right at the tank.

 

Thanks for the replies, I think tilting the bed to get to everything or taking it off will be the route to go.

 

I am looking for a fuel sending unit also. Dealer wants $182.00 ! Does anyone know where to get one cheaper?