Can I replace gas tank w/ out pulling rear S-frame??

[M42boy]

It looks like the gas tank can be dropped with the subframe all in place.  Of course, the driveshaft and the exhaust will have to be removed, but want to make sure the rear S-frame does not need to be removed to replace the gas tank.

I have a good tank being re-vatted right now, and I guess it takes a couple of weeks for that stuff to cure.  Might be going to S-frame R&R this weekend, but will wait it out if it's neccessary to have it out of the way to replace the gas tank.

Any info or BTDT appreciated.  Thanks.

[e9nine]

No need to drop s.frame. BTW - I'll give you a ring later sometime today.

[M42boy]

Cool man.  Have an idea which results in a good rear subframe for your coupe.  

[sheepdog]

No rear subframe.
You need to remove exhaust (remove at the header collector), heatshields, and driveshaft.

This is probably the worst job to do on an e30. Only think close is replacing the oil pump.


Do yourself a favor and buy a new crossover tube for the tank (cheap is all I remember), you will not be able to re-use yours. Also, buy new Guibo bolts (like $6), do NOT re-use yours, they are a one time use type of self locking nut. If you re-use them, there is a chance that within a few thousand miles one will fall out and ruin your guibo (ask how I know). The other thing to do is replace your center support bearing while you are there. I know this adds up to a few extra bucks, but trust me, it is worth it once you are done as you will not need to go through all of that again. Other good advice, get a set of ramps and a set of jackstands (4 of each), you will really want the whole car in the air. Be sure it is stable first(!), and have a friend handy, it is a two person job and the other person ads a safety net in case something happens.

I went with a new tank, and I am glad I did, it is such a hassle getting in there to it. If you do buy a tank, SHOP AROUND! For new they range from $145 shipped to  around $600(!).

[kowalski]

I didn't consult anyone before changing my fuel pump.... I dropped the tank to do it... it was the worst thing ever.

[ak96ss]

I didn't consult anyone before changing my fuel pump.... I dropped the tank to do it... it was the worst thing ever.

I'm sorry, I feel for you, but....


ROFLMAO

That sucks.  I know, I've had my tank out before, it was a PITA, particularly since I had to do it to replace the fuel lines leading to it. Hours of work for around a dollar's worth of rubber line. I should've just put a new tank in then, as mine is dented as well, but at the time I didn't plan on putting any real money into the car....  

[kowalski]

at the time I didn't plan on putting any real money into the car....  

yes, i know i brought it on myself, i've learned my lesson, and look for tips before starting projects now... The thing is, i figured there would be an access hatch, but i was just too lazy to pull out the back seat..

[achtungE30]

so you dropped the fuel tank instead??? jeez!

[kowalski]

so you dropped the fuel tank instead??? jeez!

pretty much.:confused: