69 Gas Tank Replacement Tips

[Don W.]

I have a 69 with a leaky gas tank that needs to be replaced.
1. Besides ordering the tank itself, what other parts should be ordered and replaced while I have tank out of the rear?
2. I have the Corvette shop manual, other than following those directions, are there any suggested pointers to help make the home operation go smoother?
3. Is this going to be a one person job, or will I need to 2 to drop and lift the tank?
4. On preserving the tank sticker, I plan to take digital pictures of the activity and of the sticker if it still readable; any other suggestions?
5. Is this something that is difficult for one person to perform with a couple of jack stands and a floor jack and I should perhaps consider turning over to shop to perform?

Thank you for your assistance?

[Stephen L.]

Re: 69 Gas Tank Replacement Tips

No problem doing it yourself. A little help would be a plus....
The empty tank weighs about 10#.....

Don't forget to drain the tank.

Purchase a gasket for the filler neck and the fuel gauge.
Purchase a new piece of rubber fuel line.
Purchase some roofing felt for the anti-squeak pieces. The front piece is 2" wide while the rear piece is 1.5 inches wide by the length of the tank. Use about 3-4 layers glued together. If the original stuff is still good use that.

Clean up the fuel gage/fuel pickup tube and filter. You may need a new filter "sock"

If you still have a tank sticker... remove it carefully trying the cut the adhesive rather than the paper. Save any remnants!!!

[Kent K.]

Re: 69 Gas Tank Replacement Tips

Don,

The build sheet will be covered with 38 years of dust. DO NOT blow the dust away with compressed or lung (huff and puff) air or parts of the build sheet might go with the passing air. Be very careful to brush it away in small layers with a new/unused soft bristle paint brush. It may also be damp, depending upon where you live. A heat gun may be usefull in small low heat doses to help dry out the paper being cautious not to get it hot or scorch it. Once you remove the build sheet as Steve suggested, photograph it using several camera settings until you have the most discriminating results and store those digital images in several forms/places. Research art preservation techniques for the most desireable (for you) methods of maintaining your build sheet. Always use acid-free objects that will come in contact with it. Good luck with your project.

Regards,
Kent Keech

[Kent K.]

P.S.

Don,
I almost forgot. DO NOT use any chemicals, fluids or whatever to atempt cleaning the build sheet unless you are a professional document preservation specialist (period). Maintaining dryness is suggested.
Regards,
Kent Keech