QuestionI have a 2000 Jeep Wrangler. The fuel tank skid plate is almost completely rusted away. Is it possible to change the skid plate without completely removing the fuel tank? It appears that the tank is held to the skid plate with two straps. If I disconnect these prior to unbolting the skid plate mounting bolts will I be able to lower and exchange the skid plate while leaving the gas tank up in teh vehicle?
AnswerREMOVAL
On this model, the fuel tank is mounted to vehicle skid plate. The skid plate is mounted to vehicle body.
Remove fuel filler cap.
Perform the Fuel System Pressure Release Procedure as described elsewhere in this group.
Disconnect negative battery cable.
Remove 8 screws retaining plastic fuel filler bezel to body Fuel Filler Hoses/Fuel Fill Cap Remove fuel filler bezel.
To prevent contaminants from entering tank, temporarily install fuel cap to fill hoses.
Cut plastic tie wrap securing rear axle vent hose to fuel filler hoses.
Disconnect electrical connector at front of fuel tank Fuel Tank Connections
Disconnect EVAP hose from EVAP line at front of fuel tank Fuel Tank Connections
Disconnect quick-connect fitting from fuel line at front of fuel tank Fuel Tank Connections Refer to Quick-Connect Fittings in this group for procedures.
The fuel tank and skid plate are removed as an assembly. Centrally position a transmission jack (or equivalent lifting device) under skid plate/fuel tank assembly. Secure tank assembly to jack.
Remove three skid plate-to-body nuts at front of tank Fuel Tank Mounting Nuts - Front Remove one of the nuts through access hole on skid plate Fuel Tank Mounting Nuts - Front
Remove four skid plate-to-body nuts at rear of tank Fuel Tank Mounting Nuts - Rear Do not loosen tank strap nuts. Fuel Tank Mounting Nuts - Rear
Lower the tank assembly.
If fuel pump module is to be removed, refer to Fuel Pump Module Removal/Installation.
Disconnect fuel filler hoses at tank. Before disconnecting, mark and note the hose rotational position in relation to tank fittings.
Using an approved portable gasoline siphon/storage tank, drain fuel from tank. To drain fuel, position drain hose into vent fitting (smallest of 2) on side of tank.
To separate tank from skid plate, remove two protective caps at tank strap studs Fuel Tank Mounting Nuts - Rear and remove tank strap nuts.
Remove both straps and remove tank from skid plate.
INSTALLATION
Place fuel tank into skid plate. Wrap straps around tank with strap studs inserted through holes in skid plate. Tighten strap nuts to attain 30 mm (±2 mm) between bottom of nut to end of strap stud Fuel Tank Mounting Nuts - Rear Do not over tighten nuts.
Install two protective caps to tank strap studs.
Connect fuel filler hoses at tank. Tighten hose clamps.
Raise skid plate/fuel tank assembly into position on body while guiding filler hoses.
Install 7 skid plate mounting nuts. Tighten to 16 N·m (141 in. lbs.) torque.
Remove tank jacking device.
Connect electrical connector at front of fuel tank.
Connect EVAP hose to EVAP line at front of fuel tank.
Connect quick-connect fitting to fuel line at front of fuel tank. Refer to Quick-Connect Fittings in this group for procedures.
Use a new plastic tie wrap to secure rear axle vent hose to fuel filler hoses.
Position fuel filler bezel to body. Install 8 screws and tighten.
Fill fuel tank. Install filler cap.
Connect negative battery cable to battery.
Start vehicle and inspect for leaks
