Several weeks ago I started this thread https://mercedesforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=45260 I was seeking advice about a gasoline odor that is inside and outside my car. Today I found the area of origin. It’s the LEFT side fuel tank. After pulling the panel off I could see a lot of oily stains that had run down the side of the tank. I didn’t see anything wet, but I’m certain the leak is up on top of the tank.
Now I need advice on how to remove this tank. My car is a 2007 model E350. Does anyone have directions on how to remove this fuel tank? What about a diagram of everything in the area of that tank? What about a link to an online shop manual? What about you come over on Saturday and I’ll had you tools and beer while you repair for me? J Ok, I know that is asking a lot.
Thanks!

 

There is a common problem with a vent hose on top of the tank that attatches into a moulded plastic cap that is plastic welded onto the tank. This area leaks fuel and fuel vapors and can not be seen with out dropping the tank. I am assuming that the panel you pulled off is the cover above the left fuel sender on top of the tank and that the trail is coming from the top of the saddle. If that is not the panel that you removed I suggest you check there because it may just be the fuel filter assembly or its seal leaking.

To remove the tank:
Remove the rear seat. Remove the left side body panel to access the top of the tank. Disconnect the 2 electrical connectors from the left side fuel sender. Disconnect the fuel line. Unscrew the 13mm nut for the top of the saddle (nut that would be directly under the center seat.
Under the vehicle. Remove exhaust from center seperation point back. Disconnect the drive shaft from the differential and let it hang down. Disconnect the parking brake where it runs under the tank. Remove the under side panels on the left and right (plastic 10mm nuts). Remove fuel line at the left front side of the tank. Remove the fuel filler neck at the right rear. Support the tank and remove the brackets on the left and right that are holding the tank up. Lower slightly and remove the hose that runs to the top center of the tank (where this connects is most likley what is leaking by your description). Once removed it should be ready to completely lower out of the vehicle.

 

IanRoodt,

Thanks for all that information. I sure hope it's not as complicated as it sounds. My mechanic is my brother-in-law. He’s a Master Nissan Mechanic who left that field to work in maintenance in the pharmaceutical industry. He’s very good at figuring things out, but this does sound a bit complicated. Maybe that’s because I’m a firefighter and not a mechanic. J

Are there any online drawings that would show this area of the car? Just so we know what we’re getting into, how long does the repair book allow for this job?

Thanks again for your help!

 

I haven't looked for any online images for this job. I work for a dealer so I get my r/r info from Mercedes workshop resources. I think book time is about 6.5hrs for the job. Just a reminder, you want the tank to be empty. If you find a picture of the fuel tank I would be happy to point out the spot that usually leaks.

 

Thanks! Per my mechanic, I'm driving it now to get the tank down close to empty. We're planning on tackling this thing on Monday. Keep an eye out. I'll post more info and photos once we get going with it. Thanks again!