GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Buick 🢒 1998 🢒 Skylark 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls - 2.4L 🢒 Fuel Tank Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Remove the negative battery cable.
  2. Drain the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Draining Procedure .

    3. Caution: Provide additional support when a vehicle is on a hoist in the following ways:

       • Before removing parts, support the opposite end. This helps prevent the vehicle from slipping off.
       • Before removing major components, chain the vehicle frame to the hoist pads at the same end as the removal. This helps avoid a tip-off.
    Failure to follow these precautions could cause vehicle damage, serious personal injury, or death.

  3. Raise the vehicle and suitably support. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  4. Grasp the fuel filter quick-connect fitting. Twist quick-connect fitting 1/4 turn in each direction to loosen any dirt within fitting.

    5. Caution: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air in order to prevent eye injury.

  5. Using compressed air, blow out the dirt from the quick-connect fitting at end of fuel filter quick connect.

    6. Object Number: 54520 Size: SH
  6. Remove the quick connect fittings by pulling release tabs back on the fuel line quick connector and pulling apart.

    7. Object Number: 49897 Size: SH
  7. Remove the muffler hanger bolts.
  8. Remove the exhaust rubber hangers. Allow exhaust system to rest on rear axle.
  9. Remove the hoses at the tank from the filler, vent and vapor pipes.
  10. With the aid of an assistant, support the fuel tank and disconnect the two fuel tank retaining straps.
  11. Lower the fuel tank (1).
  12. Remove the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector.
  13. Remove the fuel sender electrical connector.
  14. Remove the tank from vehicle.
  15. Remove the fuel sender assembly from the tank. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .

Installation Procedure

    Important: Inspect all connectors for dirt and burrs. Clean or replace components/assemblies as required. Fuel line O-rings for cuts, nicks, swelling or distortion. Replace if necessary.

  1. Install the fuel sender assembly to tank. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .
  2. With aid of an assistant, raise the fuel tank to the body.
  3. Install the fuel tank pressure sensor electrical connector.
  4. Install the fuel tank sender electrical connector.

    5. Object Number: 49897 Size: SH
  5. Install the fuel tank (1).

    6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the fuel tank retaining straps.

    7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 35 N·m (26 lb ft)

  7. Install the hoses to filler, vent and vapor pipes.
  8. Install the exhaust rubber hangers.
  9. Install the muffler hanger bolts.

    10. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

    Caution: Always apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends before connecting the fuel pipe fittings in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury. This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak. During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.

  10. Install the nylon fuel feed and return line quick-connect fittings.
    11. • Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male connector tube ends.
    • Push connectors together to cause the retaining tabs/fingers to snap into place.
    • Once installed, pull on both ends of each connection to make sure they are secure.
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Refill the tank.
  13. Install the negative battery cable.
  14. Inspect for fuel leaks through the following steps:
    15. 14.1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for 2 seconds.
    14.2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position for 10 seconds.
    14.3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
    14.4. Check for fuel leaks.