Gas tank sending unit

I want to remove and inspect the sending unit from my tank. Once I drain the fuel, what is the technique for removing the locking ring? I don't want to break anything.

 

They make a tool for it. But a brass punch and a hammer will do the job. Just needs to rotate a small amount.

 

Yes use brass...it won't cause a spark.

 

Just about all the fuel that is going to drip out is out...how much more fuel can I expect to pour out when I loosen the locking ring?

 

Depends on how much gas is in the tank. If I remember, the unit is near the top of the tank.

 

If you have drained all the gas...should be able to remove it with no leaks. Maybe jack up that side of the car, tilting the tank, when you remove it

 

Ok...so I got the locking ring off but how do I remove the sending unit assembly?? Do you have to push in on it to loosen or what?

 

Once the ring is removed...it pulls right out. Might be a little stuck. A little persuasion with a flat screwdriver should do the trick.

 

Thanks Craig...that did it! The reason I am doing this is I am chasing a low fuel pressure concern. I am running an oem mechanical carter pump with a new fuel filter. Pressure is barely 4lbs at idle and barely 3lbs under load. I suspected maybe the filter inside the tank was dirty. So now for more questions:

1) Is the filter over the sending unit supposed to be black? The filter fell apart at its' seam when I touched it.

2) Is Autokrafters the only place I can get a new one?

3) What should I do about the o-ring at the opening? It's really in there and wonder if I should just leave it or pry it out and get a new one?

4) Anything I should do with the sending unit before I re-install it?

Thanks for the help guys!

 

The filters are the same on the Ford sending units of the era. Difference being if it is a 5/16 or 3/8 tube. If your gas gauge worked fine then nothing more to do. Go ahead and get a new gasket, they are cheap.

 

1.) Factory is black...replacements are white
2.) No...any Mustang shop should have them
3.) Get a new one
4.) I never been able to install the sender with the tank in the car without it leaking. Take the tank out and stand the tank on its end so you can get to it easier. A thin coat of axle grease on the gasket will keep the gasket from sliding around. Make sure to clock the sending unit or the gauge won't read correctly

 

What does this mean?

 

Have the sender squire with the tank. I you have it cocked before or after 12 O'clock then it won't read correct. If it’s upside down it will read empty with a full tank and full with a empty tank

 

Sender should have tabs on it so it only goes in one way. It is "self-clocking".

 

Ok, that's what I thought....whew!