Fuel Tank: Removal

WARNING: Place "NO OPEN FLAMES" signs near the working area.

CAUTION: Be careful not to spill fuel.

Release the fuel pressure. < Ref. to RELEASING OF FUEL PRESSURE , PROCEDURE, Fuel. >
Drain fuel. < Ref. to DRAINING FUEL (WITH SUBARU SELECT MONITOR) , PROCEDURE, Fuel. >
Disconnect the ground cable from battery.
Remove the second row seats. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Second Seat. >
Remove the service hole cover of fuel pump.
1. Disconnect the connector (C).
2. Remove the bolt (A).
3. Push the grommet (B) down and remove service hole cover.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Connector, Grommet And Bolt
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the service hole cover of fuel sub level sensor.

Fig 2: Locating Service Hole Cover Bolts
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Disconnect the quick connector on the fuel delivery tube. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Fuel Delivery and Evaporation Lines. >

Fig 3: Locating Quick Connector
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the rear wheels.
Lift up the vehicle.
Remove the clip holding the harness.

Fig 4: Locating Harness Mounting Clip
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the heat shield cover and fuel tank protector.
Remove the rear suspension assembly. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Sub Frame. >
Disconnect purge hose (A), connector (B) and fuel filler hose (C).

Fig 5: Identifying Purge Hose, Connector And Fuel Filler Hose
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.
WARNING:
- A helper is required to perform this work.
- Fuel may remain in the fuel tank. This will cause the left and right sides to be unbalanced. Be careful not to drop the fuel tank when removing.
1. Support the fuel tank with the transmission jack.
2. Remove the fuel tank band that holds the fuel tank.
3. Remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.
  
  Fig 6: Locating Fuel Tank Band Bolts
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.