Removing gas tank in 71 lt1

[Robert P.]

I removed my gas tank and I am going to install a new one. In a earlier post I asked what would cause the car not to run with a sealed cap? Installing a new tank was a possible cure. [ It was time anyway ] I removed , what I think is a fuel vapor separator off of the left side of the tank.[ Rochester pro. 7028035] Is there any way to check if it is working properly or do I need to replace it. It does not look like it is to easy to find. Thanks for all your help on this project. Bob

[Joe L.]

Re: Removing gas tank in 71 lt1

Bob------

I really don't know how to check these seperators. I suppose the main thing that you could do is to blow through them to see that they are not "clogged". Make sure that the seperator is in the same position as it's installed position when you do this, though, since I think that there is a "check valve" in it for fuel spill prevention in case of a roll-over accident. I really doubt that this seperator is a cause of your problem, though. Patrick Hulst has reported recently that there is now a reproduction of this piece on the market for about 60 bucks.

[Paul O.]

Re: Removing gas tank in 71 lt1

Bob The seperator has a check valve as Joe has stated it is a float ball. Normally the ball is at the bottom and allows fuel vapors to flow to the fuel vapor canister and engine if running. If the ball sticks in the normal position fuel could flow to the vapor canister if the tank is over serviced or the car is on a slant. If it sticks in the up position it would not allow the vapers in the tank to be flow to the vapor canister. Paul#18046

[Robert P.]

Re: Removing gas tank in 71 lt1

Thanks for the response, now I have a better understanding what I am working with. I'll install the new tank clean and reinstall the separator and give it a shot.

Thanks again Bob

[Bob D.]

Re: Removing gas tank in 71 lt1

Bob, if you shake the separator you should hear the ball bounce around. If it is moving freely then I don't think you would have a problem with it as long as you install it properly.