Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1982 Corvette fuel Pump location/replacement, tank fuel, open flame

Question
Brad, I read your article on the 82 corvette relay location, Great answer. Do you have to completely remove the gas tank for a fuel pump replacement?
Thanks
Chevy

Answer
To replace an in tank fuel pump you will need to at least lower the tank far enough so that you can work on the top of the tank. Most shop[s would use a transmission jack for this as it has a larger top platform that will hold the tank. If the tank has fuel in it you will need to drain it. Fuel sloshing around in the tank as you are lowering it will make the tank hard to handle as well as being heavy. Fuel weighs about 7 pounds per gallon. Ten gallons, seventy pounds added to the tank weight. Also make sure that are working in a well vented area and not next to an open flame. I also make it a policy not to use an incandescent bulb drop light. Well working around fuel I use a LED light.