How to drain gas tank 02-S60

sergio · Post by **sergio** » 16 Jan 2012, 13:14

My gas tank is full. I need to drain it to less than 1/4 in order to replace the fuel level sensor with burnt contacts.
This 02 S60 won't start so I can't just drive, and I don't have a lift.
Is there any particular way to do it ?
Would a drill pump and a hose do?
Is the emptied gas reusable?
Thanks

Post by **fazool** » 16 Jan 2012, 13:25

Certainly drained gas is reusable. Just drain it into safe and compatible containers. You need a place to store about 12-15 gallons. Be caustious using a drill pump. Drills spark a lot in the motor and you are going to have lots of gas and fumes around.

You are better off going to a place like Harbor Freight and buying a cheap siphon hose with built in squeeze pump and one way valve for under $10. While there get of three 5 gallon containers.

WHy are you draining the tank anyway? Isn't the level under the rear seat like the fuel pump? Accessible through a sealed trap door in the floor under the rear seat?

I changed my fuel filter and have had my rear seat out several times but I dont remember.

sergio · Post by **sergio** » 16 Jan 2012, 18:12

Thanks fazool. The level sensor is indeed in the left hole, just under the seat. The right hole (the pump itself) is higher. That suggests the the top of the tank is higher than the left hole. Si with a full tank, if I open this hole gas will pour out. I remember having seen a picture of the tank and it seems kind of crescent shape. I don't dare open it when full.
Thanks for the very good suggestion.

rjS60Turbo · Post by **rjS60Turbo** » 10 Aug 2017, 14:29

I wonder if your problem is causing mine: engine shuts off at a 1/4 tank, like its out of gas. Wont start back up until I put in at least 2 gallons. I know its not empty (or even close) because a subsequent fill-up takes 13-16 gallons.... its a 21 gallon tank. Thoughts? Thanks, Rj

Sardine · Post by **Sardine** » 10 Aug 2017, 15:53

Are you trying to drain the tank to reduce the risk of explosion. if you are, then the quesion is: Is a full tank or a half-filled tank safer from risk of explosion? Does anybody know for sure? This link http://around-us-facts.blogspot.com.au/ ... never.html says that a full tank is safer.