1996 130 rebuild fuel tank query

[hitch]

After rebuilding the engine in my 300 tdi 130 ex NSW rural fire service vehicle (which blew a hose and then the head / pistons were not much good ) I could not get any fuel up to the engine. So I decided to remove the tank to clean it out. ( this has taken ~ 18 mths so far !) Upon inspecting the removed tank there is a loose piece of flat metal inside which rattles around as the tank is turned over. I cannot find any reference /photo/explode view to tell me what it is. Any help would be appreciated.

[simmo]

I pulled my tank out years ago to fix some leaks. if you remove the fuel gauge sender you have a good view into the tank. I made my own tool to open the gauge sender , and don't remember it being that difficult.

I suspect the metal object rattling around in there is part of the level gauge sender. It has a metal arm with a float on it, and a guide frame.

There might also be a "weir" around the suction pipe.

while you have the tank out have a close look at the sealing on protection plate under the tank if fitted. If the sealant cracks water will get between the tank and protection plate and corrode the tank from the outside.

cheers simmo

[hitch]

Thanks Simmo ( NBN has failed again so no inet access past few days) I will take another look on the weekend.

Does anyone have access to an exploded diagram similar to the ones available for the later model tanks?