The gas tank in a 1979 Firebird is located underneath the trunk, just forward of the rear bumper. The fuel filler neck is directly behind the rear license plate bracket, allowing you to refuel the car from a gas pump located on either side of the car. The removal of the filler neck is the only real obstacle to an otherwise easy job of removing the gas tank. This job should not be undertaken by anyone lacking at least a basic grasp of automotive repair.
Tools Used: Battery terminal wrench, Fluid pump, Large gas can or drum, Floor jack, 2 jack stands, Socket set, Helper
Remove a Gas Tank
Raise the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable using the battery terminal wrench.
Insert the outlet hose of the fluid pump into the large gas can or drum (the size of this container is determined by the amount of gasoline you have in the gas tank at the time). If the tank is empty, simply skip this step. Run the inlet hose down into the gas tank and pump the gas out of the tank and into the gas can or drum. You can pick up a fluid pump from your local auto parts store (each pump comes with a set of specific instructions on how to use it). This normally involves you pumping a handle up and down to move the fluid from one place to another. Continue pumping until the tank is empty.
Raise the rear end of the Firebird into the air and place the two jack stands underneath the rear axle, near the leaf spring shackles. Lower the Firebird onto the jack stands and then lower the jack down and position it under the gas tank.
Use the socket set to remove the trim surrounding the fuel filler neck, where the neck extends outward behind the license plate.
Use the socket set to unbolt the two retaining straps holding the gas tank in place. These straps run front to back, and are bolted in at one end and fit through a retaining shackle at the other. Make sure the gas tank is held in place by the floor jack before you completely remove the bolts.
Remove the straps from their retaining shackles while your holder steadies the gas tank, so that it doesn't move on its own. Slowly lower the floor jack and guide the filler neck out of the socket located behind the license plate. Once the jack is completely lowered and the gas tank is low enough for you to access its top, use the socket set to remove the fuel line and vapor recovery line.
Tips & Warnings
Never work around gasoline while lighting a cigarette or smoking. Keep any other source of fire away from the gasoline.
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