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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Fuel issue
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Question
I have a 57 Chevy Bel-Air. It was parked for sometime until recently. Once I got in it and decided to take it for a spin I noticed I need gas. I went to fill her up and it would only take a couple gallons. It still was near empty. I checked out the gauge and it seems to be operating. I'm just not sure as to how to solve my problem. Should I drain my tank ... blow out my lines...what do you think?
If I were doing this job I think that I would remove the fuel filler tube from the car first. This is attached to the fuel tank on a slip fit and bolted to the car body near the filler cap. Check the vent tube and the filler tube for obstructions. You can then stick a stick like a dip stick into the tank to measure how much fuel is in the tank. Be safe and do this only in a well ventilated space and remember that static electricity can cause the fuel to ignite. Be careful.
Brad
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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