Gas tank removal tips
 

I recently removed my gas tank to check for a leak, here's how to do it. NOTE- run the tank as low as possible first, when the low fuel light come on there is about 2 gallons left. The tank holds slightly under 17 gallons total.
1- Start the car and pull the fuel pump fuse, the engine will quit in a few seconds, this relieves line pressure. Turn the key off.
2- Disconnect the exhaust at the coupling next to the converter. From that point back disconnect the 3 exhaust hangers and allow the exhaust to hang free.
3- Disconnect the electrical plug that leads to the tank. This is easy to find.
4- Disconnect the fuel line and fuel return lines, some gas may drip out. To disconnect just press the button and pull it apart, no tools required.
5- Disconnect the EVAP tube that goes to the tank, push the button and pull apart.
6- Using a long screwdriver loosen the clamp where the fill hose meets the tank. Do not remove the clamp. Fold the hose back and out of the way.
7- Remove the bolt that holds the small fill hose clamp in place using a 10mm socket. This is near the wheel, and allows movement of the hose.
8- Place a small floor jack under the tank, and use it to hold the tank on place. A small piece of plywood helps stabilize.
9- Remove the 4 bolts that secure the 2 tanks straps, remove the straps.
10- Lower the tank while moving it forward, it will eventually clear. Now you will see why the exhaust had to be loosened. Be careful not to snag the fuel lines or electrical lines. Gas will not come out of the tank at the filler point due to an internal safety valve, but can drip somewhat out of the 2 fuel lines a little.
Do not use 120 volt lights when removing the tank due to ignition hazards.

One technical correction: there is no fuel return pipe; that is a fuel vapor pipe. It takes vapor out of the tank and sends it to be burned in the combustion chamber.

For safety, you should disconnect the battery before doing any work with the fuel system.

Start the HHR then remove the fuel pump fuse , wait till the engine shuts off and then remove the fuel pressure hose.
I’ve changed a few fuel pumps and did not need to disconnect the exhaust pipe flange. Just took off the exhaust hanger rings.
I also determined that if you lift the rear axle at the hub the axle beam lifts to give more room to get the tank out and back in!

I thought that the large tube that connects to the charcoal canister took vapor out of the tank?

Then the vapor goes to the charcoal canister then to the EVAP purge valve.
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Removing a gas tank can be a detailed process, but your steps make it clear and manageable. Starting with running the tank low is a smart move to minimize spills. Relieving the fuel line pressure by pulling the fuel pump https://tropical-casino.com/ fuse is crucial for safety. Your method for disconnecting the exhaust and ensuring it hangs free is practical, as it creates more space to work.