Fuel Tank Question

[NickNakorn]

Hi all,

 

My trusty 1992 UK spec 1.8 L-series 4x4 Estate failed it's MOT last week due to a leaking petrol tank. I've removed the tank today and have found very small leaks in the rear seam and, in addition, two of the outlet pipes sheared off when I disconected their rubber pipes - they were really rusty. Here's my question I hope you can help me wirth:

 

At the front of the tank it's the outlet that has sheared off while the return is OK.

 

At the side near the filler it is the small breather (?) that has sheared while the other pipe connection (what is it?) is OK

 

What I need to know is, are there one-way valves built into these tubes within the tank. There was a little bit of fuel still left in the tank when I removed it and both the unbroken pipes would not drain fuel when the tank was tipped while the broken pipes pissed it out. I intend to weld on some new pipes to replace the old ones and would normally clear the others with some compressed air but, if there are valves inside, I don't want to damage them. Further, would a SLOSH tank sealant mess them up? My Haynes is no use at all on this subject and was completely incorrect concerning tank removal and does not tell me what the small tubes at the side actually do.

 

Best wishes all,

 

Nick 

[ruparts]

hi,

 i cut one open one time just to see inside layout,  the pipes you refer to wind around in the perimeter so no way to pour the fuel out,  the filler opening has a flapper valve, , the rusted off ones may have rusted off inside as well, which could let fuel escape when tilted.  the inside  fuel pickup is in the middle but the pipe does not go from front to middle, it makes a twisted around in there and ends up in the middle with a strainer on it.  the best option is to replace the tank with a good one, or new one if you can.   they come in some different setup in the US,  by 92 all were fuel inject so that did away with the early version small outlet pipe carburetor version with no return pipe,,  but the vents and all that.  ours have 3 little pipes on the side and a bigger one that is with the filler pipe.  in front, it's a in and an out and a little vent one that routes along the outside of tank to the side, or rear , can't remember now.   trying to coat it inside is likely to clog the pickup sock,  and all the venting,  , replacement is best option, my opinion.

[NickNakorn]

Cheers Ruparts!

Very handy infomation - I haven't tried looking for a new one as most parts for these cars are now almost impossible in the UK because there were so few of them imported. But I'll certainly take a look. I've noticed this afternoon that the litle pipes are braised into the tank so I'll use solder rather than weld so I don't make matters worse.

Best,

Nick