dropping the tank is pretty easy, unless you're facing as much rust and mud as the pics in the previous post...
1. get as much fuel out of the tank as possible. it's pretty light when empty.
2. if the engine still runs, pull the fuel pump relay to eliminate pressure in the fuel line.
3. get the rear of the truck as high off the ground as possible and support it on safety stands, place them under the rear spring perches. getting the front off the ground is optional.
4. remove the driver's side rear tire.
5. remove the screw clamps from the rubber fuel and vent lines, at the tank, pull them loose and tuck them behind the rear sway bar.
6. assuming you don't have skid plates, remove the 2 bolts at the front of the tank. drop the front of the tank onto the cast iron support bracket. if you want, you can use a piece of wire, or wire-tie, to hold the tank on the bracket and act as a hinge.
7. support the rear of the tank on a floor jack with a small piece of plywood.
8. remove the tank strap bolt and strap (it keys into the frame).
9. lower the rear of the tank until you can access the electrical plugs, evap line and fuel line. unplug everything (fuel line requires a good 3/8" disconnect tool, squeeze the evap line connector between your thump and forefinger to release it while pulling).
10. drop the tank to the ground, at the rear, and slide it toward the rear to drop the front and it's out (i like to drop it on a piece of cardboard, so it's easy to slide it out).
don't forget to replace your fuel filter (requires a 5/16" disconnect tool) and put back the fuel pump relay. turn the key on/off about 5 times before your first start.
