C2 fuel sender unit removal

[Eugene B.]

Members,
I was looking a the bottom of the gas tank on my '65, this morning. As part of the cleanup in that area of the car, I would like to remove the fuel sender unit, replace the gasket, and fuel line along with general clean-up. I'll probably remove the gas tank. I guessing that it has to come out to get to the electric antenna?

Question, is it possible to remove the fuel sender without the special spanner wrench that is shown and referenced in the shop manual? If so, please get me started in the right direstion.

Regarding the power antenna, does anyone have a rebuilder that can bring them back to operational condition?

Thanks,
Gene

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 fuel sender unit removal

Gene-----

The fuel sender retainer can be removed without the special tool (although I highly recommend use of this tool). Use a BRASS DRIFT or piece of BRASS stock and a small hammer to carefully tap on one of the exposed tangs of the retainer, rotating it counter-clockwise. The same method can be used for re-installation, making sure that the retainer is fully rotated and locked into position. You MUST use a BRASS driver since you don't want any possibility, at all, of creating a spark.

Somehow, I'm recollecting that the tank does not absolutely have to come out for power antenna replacement. However, I'm sure that, at a minimum, it will make the job a lot easier.

[Eugene B.]

Re: C2 fuel sender unit removal

Joe,
Thanks for your reponse. There seems to be one downward, vertical facing tab when I look up at the sender. Is this some kind of a locking device that has to be moved inward before the ring will turn?

If I don't want to bang around with a brass drift and hammer, where can I purchase the spanner tool that is shown in the shop manual?

Thanks,
Gene

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 fuel sender unit removal

Gene:

The "tang" you refer to, is a "stop" for the ring. It should be tightened as Joe said, until it contacts the stop.

As far as the antenna goes, the tank does not have to be removed, but if you have undercar exhaust, then the left muffler must be taken down.
OEM Glass will rebuild your core, if it is useable. If your core is NG, then you may have to wait until OEM can get one for you. Bob Sindilar, with Chicago Corvette Supply was also doing this service. In either case, be prepared to dig deep --last time I looked, the freight was about $550.00, if you don't have a useable core.

Joe