Can't get tank out to replace fuel pump '96 Tahoe 4-door 4x4

[hiwaycruzer]

AAAAAHHHHHRRRRRGGGGG!!!!! I've been wrestling around on my back underneath my truck for a couple of days now, trying to drop the gas tank so I can replace the fuel pump. It seems my Tahoe was built AROUND the fuel tank, because it won't come out. I've done just like the you-tube videos instructed; jack under tank, removed the straps, pulled tank towards the rear and away from the frame. However, I can't get the front of the tank to clear the torsion-bar cross-member, not even with the help of pry bar. The back of the tank is smack up against the rear axle, can't go any further. I've wiggled the tank in all directions, but no luck.
Question: do I have to remove the drive shaft for additional clearance?
Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!

 

[livingez_123]

how about you move your jack stands to the frame so your axle can drop down?

 

[RAWVORTEC]

Unless for some reason you have the 44 gal tank, it should come out. I've removed mine 4-5 times, and its just a matter of having it at the right angle to pop out. It is tight though. Good luck

 

[ccapehartusarmyINF.(ret)]

sorry but i have to ask this when someone is removing a fuel tank
did you run the gas outta the tank

 

[inthechateau]

I cut an access panel under the back seat to get to the pump. Dropped tank one time and never again PITA.

 

[roeboys]

I opted to cut a hole under rear driver side seat and put a panel under the carpet which has a seam there think I cheated but tank was full and it didn't hurt my 98 silverdo bed so at least its under seat and carpet

 

[OR VietVet]

Cutting holes for access damages the integrity of the crumple zones and puts people in danger in an accident. IMO. But I would never ever buy one of these vehicles knowing about the hole and would be damn mad if I found out about it later.

 

[white7wolf]

I have a 98 and both times I've done it with my father-in-law we have removed the driveline. It doesn't take very long, that's how we've done it (and we've done it twice now). Dropping it was always easy, it was getting it back in and fighting gravity that was the hard part!

 

[inthechateau]

Raider, as far as safety is concerned, the integrity is only compromised if you don't do a decent proper job closing up the access point. On mine I made flanges, 1" centered rivet line and joggled the overlap cover panel with same gauge as rest of floor pan. Used body seam sealer like factory sealer and closed her up. If anything else it is more like taking off a inspection panel on one of my UH-60 Blackhawlk helicopters. No compromise to safety. I was not afraid to put my family in it and sure would not jeprodise their safety.