How to Install a Fuel Tank in a Toyota Tacoma

Since 1995, the Toyota Tacoma has been a reliable and accessible pick-up truck. The Tacoma has a big enough flat bed to hold even the largest of loads, but even the big guys need repairs sometimes. Installing a fuel tank into your Toyota Tacoma is just as easy as driving it, once you know how. Understand what you need to do to install a fuel tank in various Toyota Tacoma models between 1995 and 2008.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Jack stands
• Fuel container
• Floor jack
• Wooden board
• Screwdriver
• Towel
• Safety glasses
• Latex gloves

1. • 1

     Remove the back seat cushions to gain access to the fuel tank 1995-1996 models. For 2007-2008 models, lift the Tacoma with jack stands to gain access to the fuel tank. Take off the tank filler cap to reduce fuel tank pressure. Turn off your car stereo alarm with the stereo activation code before disconnecting any part of your car battery. Unplug the negative battery terminal cable from your car's battery. Take out the tank's drain plug and empty the remaining fuel into a fuel container.

   • 2

     Disconnect the fuel filler neck from the fuel tank top. Remove the fuel lines, the vapor return line and all other wires. Take off the fuel tank protective shield to gain access to the tank in 1997 and 1998 models. Disconnect the retaining straps before lowering the tank with a floor jack supported with a flat wooden board underneath. Put the tank aside in a ventilated area.

   • 3

     Raise the floor jack with the new fuel tank up underneath the back seat of the truck for all models. Wrap the ground strap around the tank sides. Reconnect the fuel pump/fuel gauge sending unit. Get underneath the truck and put the protective shield at the bottom of the tank in 1997 and 1998 models.

   • 4

     Reattach the fuel line and the vapor return line back to the fuel tank top. Use a screwdriver to hold the fuel filler neck hose once you connect it back to the fuel tank top. Make sure the filler neck hose is firmly in the fuel tank.

   • 5

     Pour the contents of your fuel container back into the fuel tank. Then, put the drain cover over the fuel tank. Activate the car battery by plugging back in the negative battery terminal cable. Restore fuel pressure by putting on the fuel tank filler cap.

   • 6

     Replace the rear seat cushions once installation is complete. Put a towel underneath the back seat to catch any possible fuel leaks. Look under your Tacoma for any loose wiring. Turn on your car once everything is back together. Run your engine for a few minutes to make sure the car works properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses and latex gloves to protect your eyes and hands to avoid getting fuel on your eyes and hands. Rinse your eyes and hands with soap and water immediately if you get fuel on you.

• Don't begin fuel tank installation until you have everything you need. Make sure your tank and engine are cool to avoid getting any burns.