Does anybody know what size socket I am going to need to remove the drain plugs for the tanks? I plan on draining/removing them this weekend. I would like to know beforehand as the car is 100 miles away and somewhat out in the country. Would like to be prepared and hopefully avoid a 20 mile trip into town to get the correct socket.
If it matters, '87 XJ6 series 3.
Thanks for any input.

 

you can try to use the Lugnuts wrench located in the trunk/boot with the Jack, to remove the tank's drain bolts, which is the same size as a 22mm socket. This wrench also works to remove the engine oil drain bolt and Steering wheel securing nuts. At least in my 1984 XJ-6, that's the size of all 3 drain bolts and nuts.

if you're buying a socket, it needs to be a deep one to work with the tank's drain bolts.

 

Thanks Jose,
I've been doing a little looking online and I believe the drain plug changed in the later series cars to a 9/16". The earlier cars apparently had the larger (22mm?) plug.

 

Dale, that is very possible, since the hole/opening size on the panel is also smaller in the later cars;

the head size could also be a 14mm or 15mm, but if they are the larger bolts, you always can try the lugnuts wrench.

 

There is in fact two tank plugs, a 9/16th one that is a drain bolt and a bigger plug that is the 11/16 or 22 mm one. The smaller one actually threads in to the larger one and the larger one is removed to access the fuel pickup filter. From experience when you turn the small one the big one normally comes with it.

Regards,
Jay

 

Take a small tool box with assorted 7/16 to 22mm sockets. Hammer, extensions, pliers, screwdrivers. You never do anything like this without a proper recovery toolbox. Oh, yes, you may need Whitworth tools too! Duct tape, black electrical tape and a fuel can. Camera for don't knows, cell phone.

 

From my experience removing the fuel tanks,Larry's list pretty much covers all you will need.

 

Well, big bolt, little bolt?? it mattered little, when I drained mine. I intended for the little bolt to yield to the wrench I used. Nope, the big one opened in both cases. Lottsa gas. but, I was prepared for it, sorta. The good news was that little or no detritus came out. Clean tanks. I just wanted to dispose of what I thought was stale gas and a portential issue to my nice new clean injectors!!

I "enhanced" the fluid in my of my parts washer and gave a lot to my son for his old 63 Dodge 318. it cared little about fuel quality!!

Carl