Rear Beam And Fuel Tank Removal

[starky5 18]

Hi, I am soon going to be removing my rear beam and fuel tank so i can have some welding done on my 205. Im looking for advice on any things that may be trouble so i can get ready (have spares for when i get angry and break bits) as im going to be doing the work over a weekend so wont be able to get parts easily.

 

Also any suggestions for how to would be appreciated!

 

Thanks in advance

[allanallen 528 2 Cars]

If your removing any brake pipes be prepared to replace them. They tend to seize up very quickly, same with bleed nipples.

Bolts/studs that hold the tank up can be bastards, they enjoy rusting up and then snapping when you as much as look at them.

It might be an idea to get under the car before the weekend and clean up/oil anything you'll be un-doing.

Exhaust clamps and rubbers are another thing that like braking/disintegrating when you try and remove them.

[starky5 18]

If your removing any brake pipes be prepared to replace them. They tend to seize up very quickly, same with bleed nipples.

Bolts/studs that hold the tank up can be bastards, they enjoy rusting up and then snapping when you as much as look at them.

It might be an idea to get under the car before the weekend and clean up/oil anything you'll be un-doing.

Exhaust clamps and rubbers are another thing that like braking/disintegrating when you try and remove them.

I played with the exhaust a month or so ago so thats one thing i can hopefully rely on! The fuel tank studs, If they snap i take it i can weld on bolts as replacements?

[Anthony 1,003]

As above, although I would say that if the brake pipes are original, I would replace them as a matter of course as they will be in poor condition.

 

You don't strictly speaking need to unplumb the brake lines to remove either the beam or tank though, particularly on a 1.9 GTi

 

With regards to the fuel tank, removing and refitting it is MUCH easier if it's low on fuel - do not even consider it with more than half a tank as you'll just spill it everywhere when you tilt the tank back to remove it. I personally run it down until the fuel light is on constant (typically 5 litres)

 

Otherwise, only thing to add to the above is that you'll be very lucky if the jubilee clip that holds the filler neck to the tank undoes, so get a replacement. New fuel hose clips would be a wise idea too.

[starky5 18]

The brake pipes were all replaced about 4 years ago with copper lines ad stainless braided flexs so im hoping they will still be ok. Im in the process of running the fuel down, would be easier if my fuel light worked haha.

 

Ideal ill make sure i have spare jubilees and fuel line clips handy thanks