The fuel tank is an important element of the car, responsible for storing and supplying fuel to the engine. During operation, it can become clogged, covered with rust, or develop a leak, which will require its removal, cleaning, or replacement. To carry out such work, you need to understand how to remove the fuel tank of a VAZ 2104 competently and without risk. The material provides a step-by-step procedure, a list of necessary tools, and safety rules.

In what cases is tank removal required

On the VAZ 2104, removing the tank becomes necessary under the following circumstances:
  1. Fuel leaks or traces of corrosion are detected.
  2. The fuel level sensor has failed.
  3. It is necessary to remove dirt, rust, or metal shavings from the tank.
  4. Replacement of fuel hoses, filter, or lines is planned.
  5. The car is being prepared for painting or body repair.

Preparatory stage

Before starting work, it is important to take care of safety. It is better to carry out removal in a well-ventilated garage or outdoors, away from sources of fire. For the work you will need:
  • A jack and reliable supports (or a ramp).
  • Wrenches of 10, 12, and 13.
  • Screwdrivers.
  • A container for draining fuel.
  • Pliers.
  • Rags and protective gloves.

Step 1. Draining the fuel

Before starting work, it is necessary to completely empty the tank of gasoline. To do this, use the drain hole in the lower part of the tank or disconnect the fuel line and carefully drain the fuel into a prepared container. Important: drain gasoline only with the ignition off, away from fire.

Step 2. Disconnecting the battery

To eliminate the risk of a short circuit or spark, remove the negative battery terminal. This is a strict requirement when working with the fuel system.

Step 3. Providing access to the tank

On the VAZ 2104, the tank is located under the body in the rear part, next to the rear axle. To access it, you need to:
  • raise the rear of the car with a jack;
  • remove the right rear wheel — this will be more convenient;
  • if there is a protective cover, remove it.

Step 4. Disconnecting hoses and tubes

Carefully disconnect all lines connected to the tank:
  • the supply and return fuel lines;
  • the ventilation hose;
  • the filler neck.
Before disconnecting, pinch the hoses with pliers or special clamps to prevent fuel from leaking. Also disconnect the connector from the fuel level sensor.

Step 5. Unscrewing the fasteners

The VAZ 2104 tank is secured with two steel strap clamps on bolts. Using a 13 wrench, unscrew the bolts while supporting the tank from below so that it does not fall. After loosening the fasteners, smoothly lower the tank down.

Step 6. Removing the tank

When all hoses and fasteners are disconnected, carefully pull the tank out from under the car. If it is dirty, wipe it with a rag. At the same time, it is worth inspecting it: check the bottom and walls for rust, cracks, and damage.

Step 7. Cleaning or replacement

After removal, the tank can be washed from dirt and rust. For this, use clean gasoline, diesel fuel, or a special cleaner. If the damage is serious, it is wiser to replace the tank with a new one.

Installing the tank in place

Installation is carried out in reverse order:
  1. Place the tank in position and tighten the fasteners.
  2. Connect the hoses and fuel lines.
  3. Connect the fuel level sensor connector.
  4. Put the wheel back in place and lower the car.
  5. Connect the battery and fill with fuel.
After assembly, it is recommended to check the tightness of all connections and make sure that gasoline is not leaking anywhere.

Useful recommendations

  • If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a car service.
  • Do not use metal objects that could strike a spark.
  • If the walls are severely corroded, repair may be unsafe — in this case, the tank should be replaced.
  • After installation, check that the fuel level sensor works correctly.

How to remove the tank on other cars

The general principle is similar for other brands. For example:
  • Renault Trafic — the fasteners are unscrewed from under the body, after removing the protection.
  • Audi A6 C5 — the tank is located under the rear row of seats, some operations are performed from the cabin.
  • Opel Vectra A — for convenient access, the rear beam is lowered.
  • Renault Kangoo — removal from below, disconnecting the fuel pump will be required.
  • Opel Vivaro or Ford Transit — due to the large size of the tank, it is better to work together.
  • Chevrolet Lanos — the scheme is similar to the VAZ: the tank is held on clamps and removed from below.
Now you know how to remove the fuel tank of a VAZ 2104 yourself. The process is not too complicated, but requires attentiveness and compliance with safety measures. Key points are complete fuel draining, disconnecting the battery, and correctly disconnecting all hoses and fasteners. This approach will allow you to safely remove the tank for cleaning, repair, or replacement and avoid fuel leaks and other unpleasant consequences.