tool stuck in gas tank

[Bernard Littau]

Well, the electrical posts are not insulated on the pump, but I don't
think even a short in there is a big problem as long as there is no
air in the tank -- make sure your gas cap seals and the tank is under
pressure.

I think you should take the effort to get the tool out of there when
you get a chance, its not that big a job.  Do it when you have very
little gas in the tank, and you'll be able to reach almost anywhere
without getting any gas past the long non-latex glove you will be
wearing.  Nitile gloves work well, though for a quick grab even latex
is OK.

I would be most immediately concerned that a tool will mess up the
float and sending unit for the gas gauge, I wouldn't trust the gauge
until you run a few tanks through and the tool settles on the bottom. 
Even then, it's a potential problem.

Best,

Bernard Littau
Woodinville, WA


On Mon, 13 Dec 2004 18:54:57 -0600, Livolsi, Stephane
<Stephane.Livolsi at investorsgroup.com> wrote:
>         I have to admit that I DON'T KNOW what might happen, but I would
> think that having a longish conducting piece of metal bouncing around in
> a gas tank where you have a positive wire (to the pump itself) and
> ground is prolly not a good idea.  Are the terminals even shielded - I
> haven't done one in a while and can't remember.... And even if they are
> shielded, I personally would not feel comfortable riding in that
> car.....especially when the tank gets close to empty.
> 
> I didn't catch the original post - is there a particular reason why it
> can't be fished out - a magnet on a stick maybe?
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Kent McLean [mailto:kentmclean at mindspring.com]
> Sent: December 13, 2004 4:29 PM
> To: Ahmad Helal
> Cc: quattro
> Subject: Re: tool stuck in gas tank
> 
> Ahmad Helal wrote:
> > and the car and the extension fell into the gas tank..my question
> > is..will this cause harm? if so what can I do?
> 
> It's not going to melt or clog the intake. It shouldn't rust
> as it will be immersed in gas the whole time.  It may make some noise as
> it rolls around during cornering, but you'll know what it is.  I
> wouldn't lose any sleep over it.
> 
> Kent
> '94 100 S Avant
> '89 200 TQ, "Bad Puppy" needs a new home
> 
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