Removing petrol from a car's tank.

Thomas. PLease. · 29 Jan 2009 at 18:07

Hi there, unfortunately, recently the gearbox on my old 106 broke, luckily it was just before it was due to have a few things repaired and go in for its MOT.

However not so luckily i had just filled the tank with petrol so theres around 35-40 quids worth in there, it will probably be off to the scrappers soon and being a poor student I want the petrol back.

So, is there an easy way to get the petrol out, dont really fancy a mouthful of petrol trying to siphon it, so is there another easier way?

Thanks, tom.

Lashout_UK · 29 Jan 2009 at 18:10

Use a blowtorch to cut a hole in the bottom of the tank.

<runs>

......but no, really don't try that.

Find the fuel line in the engine bay, unclip it, direct into container, switch on the ignition and the electric pump will do the rest.

Alternatively, you will probably find the fuel lines are underneath the car - you might be able to get hold of one and just cut it, or pull it off - but you're going to have to think about how you're going to catch or store that much fluid at an uncontrolled rate.

Or you could just siphon it - as you'll be easily able to stop it, as well as being able to direct it into suitable containers.

You could use a cheap electric pump too, suck it out...or a hand pump....It ain't rocket science...

Do use appropriate containers though i.e. jerry cans or the plastic petrol containers, not just random light plastic bottles laying around...

Berger · 29 Jan 2009 at 18:15

Screwdriver through the tank.

jongeeone · 29 Jan 2009 at 18:38

I would imagine siphoning as lashout said would be easiest.

Finglonga · 29 Jan 2009 at 18:44

Berger said:
Screwdriver through the tank.

This . . . . But make sure you have enough storage fore it before you give it a jab.