Fuel Tank Venting - Service Tips

ARTICLE NO.
00-8-5

DATE:
04/17/2000

FUEL - VENTING TANK WHEN SERVICING CNG FUEL SYSTEM - SERVICE TIP - BI-FUEL VEHICLES ONLY

FORD: 1996-2000 CONTOUR

ISSUE
Due to an internal design change to the solenoid tank valve, the pressure release device (PRD)can no longer be removed from the tank valve without first venting the fuel tank.

ACTION
When servicing a CNG fuel system refer to the following Service Procedure for venting tank.

SERVICE PROCEDURE





When servicing the CNG fuel system, where bleeding the system or fuel system pressure release is required, always use the manual bypass to close the solenoid tank valve (Figure 1).

When closing the solenoid tank valve (by using the manual bypass), all lines and fittings can be serviced with the exception of the PRD where tank pressure is still present (Figure 1).

Before removing any PRD from a tank valve, the CNG fuel tank MUST be fully vented.

WARNING: Do not remove the PRD at any time until the tank is fully vented of all pressure. the tank should never be left unattended with the manual bypass in the closed position. the natural gas fuel supply is pressurized to 3000 PSIG. removal of components without pressure relief or venting of the CNG tank can cause natural gas to escape into the air and cause injury or death.

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: None
WARRANTY STATUS: Information Only
OASIS CODES: 404000