1982 BMW 320i

FUEL SYSTEM

                             
8/02 (Total cost $100):  This project was to remove the fuel tanks and replace all of the fuel lines to get rid of the fuel smell that is so common when the fuel tanks are full.  In the picture on the left you can see the fuel stains that were the result of leaks in the vent hose connecting the tanks. There is also a "Y" connector located near the fuel sender/in-tank fuel pump that ties all of the vent lines together.  I think our fuel smell problem was primarily in the crossover vent line located on the top of the tanks.  The "Y" connector that ties all of the vents lines together was fuel stained and it appeared that it was leaking.  We also found a leaks in the braided hose that connects the in tank fuel pump with the fuel pump located near the right rear wheel and the braided hose on top of the sender unit.

These are pictures of the in-tank fuel pump and fuel sender unit (fuel level sensor).  The sender unit is used to measure the level of the fuel in the tank and electronically sends the signal to the fuel gage.  The fuel sender/in-tank unit is located under the back seat on the passenger's side.  Once removed, the fuel sender is easily separated from the unit.

The "O" ring shown is the gasket that fits at the top of the unit to create a tight seal.  I recommend that you always replace this seal.  If this is not possible, you should let the old ring sit for approximately 48 hours to allow it to revert to its original shape.  Be sure to check out the links on more pictures of fuel system that should be helpful BMW 320i Parts, Drawings, and Tech-Tips.

We decided to get a little creative with the fuel tanks.  I guess you could say we wanted to "customize" our underside a bit.  We decided in the beginning that if anything came off of the car would go back on cleaned and as close to new as possible.  

The tanks pictured to the left show the underside as would be seen from the ground when they were taken off.  

We went back to the metal and put at least 6 coats of rust resistant paint on the tanks.  We replaced all hoses (vent and pressure) and added new clamps.  I can tell you that unless you have someone with a sandblaster, get ready to do some serious sanding.  The tank on the left is sanded back to the metal and the one on the right was before sanding.

Yes it might seem a little strange but we thought it was unique.  We are probably the only 320i owners with yellow fuel tanks.  We actually have two-tone tanks...yellow on the bottom and black on the top.  This is the kind of custom work that your local mechanic will probably not be willing to do for you.

Here you can see the crossover hose and shield.  We painted the shield red for a touch of contrast.  We changed the fuel filter while we had the system depressurized.  Here is a great link for instructions on how to change your fuel filter http://www.picture-this-graphics.com/bmw320i.html

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