Standard Workshop Practices (page 13 of 25)

 
Always release pipe clips fully before attempting to disconnect fuel pipes.  
 

Fuel tank repairs  

Oil seals  

Always renew oil seals which have been removed either as an individual component or as part of an assembly. Never use 
a seal which has been improperly stored or handled.  
 

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Take great care when removing old seals that the sealing surfaces and seal housing are not damaged.  

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Carefully examine seal before fitting to ensure that it is clean and undamaged.  

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Ensure that the surface on which the seal is to run and also the seal housing is clean and free from burrs or 
scratches. Renew the component if the sealing surface cannot be restored.  

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Special tools and protection sleeves are provided for fitting the majority of seals and must be used when specified. 

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Many seals are now coated with a protective wax and DO NOT need to be lubricated prior to fitting. Always check 
the relevant repair procedure which will state if a seal must be fitted dry. Never touch these seals with oily hands 
as the oil will contaminate the protective coating and affect the sealing properties of the seal; also, ensure that 
fitting tools and protection sleeves are free from oil and grease. Seals which must be lubricated prior to fitting 
should have the recommended lubricant applied to the areas specified in the repair procedure.  

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Ensure that a seal is fitted the correct way round. For example, the lip of the seal must face towards the lubricant 
which it is sealing.  

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When fitting an oil seal, ensure that it is positioned square to shaft and housing. Where the seal is to be fitted to a 
housing prior to fitting over a shaft, take care not to allow the weight of an unsupported shaft to rest on the seal.  

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Always use the recommended special tool and protection sleeve to fit an oil seal. If no tool is specified, use a 
suitable mandrel approximately 0.4 mm (0.015 in) smaller than the outside diameter of the seal. Use adhesive 
tape on the shaft to protect the sealing lip of the seal.  

   WARNING: Containers used for storing fuel must be clearly marked with the contents and placed in a 

safe storage area which meets the requirements of the local authority.

   CAUTION: Some fuel lines are now fitted with 'quick release' connectors. If a connector is damaged, no 

attempt must be made to repair the connector, a new fuel line and connector(s) assembly must be fitted.

   CAUTION: No attempt should be made to repair a plastic fuel tank. If the structure of the tank is 

damaged, a new tank must be fitted.