If you suspect bad fuel, your best bet is to have a professional mechanic handle it. They have the proper tools, safety equipment, and expertise to do the job safely and correctly. They'll likely be able to siphon out the bad fuel and properly clean the tank.
However, if you are determined to proceed yourself, understand the risks involved and follow these steps with extreme caution:
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flammable and its fumes are toxic. Work in a well-ventilated area, away from any ignition sources (including cigarettes, sparks, and even static electricity). Wear safety glasses and gloves.
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental sparking.
2. Locate the Fuel Tank: The fuel tank is usually located under the vehicle, near the rear axle.
3. Access: You'll need to access the fuel tank. This may involve raising the vehicle with jack stands (ensure proper safety procedures are followed!). You might need to remove some underbody panels or components to reach the tank.
4. Locate the Fuel Drain: The 2001 Ford Explorer likely doesn't have a dedicated fuel drain valve. You'll need to siphon the fuel out.
5. Siphoning: Use a specialized fuel siphon pump designed for this purpose. These pumps are available at most auto parts stores. Never use your mouth to siphon gasoline.
6. Container: Have a suitable container ready to collect the gasoline. This container must be designed for flammable liquids and properly labeled.
7. Disposal: Dispose of the contaminated gasoline properly. Check with your local authorities or a recycling center for proper disposal procedures. Improper disposal is illegal and environmentally harmful.
8. Refilling: Once the tank is empty, you'll need to refill it with fresh fuel.
After draining: Even after draining, there might still be some contaminated fuel residue in the tank. You might need a professional fuel tank cleaning to ensure all traces of bad fuel are removed.
Again, I strongly recommend taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to handle this issue. They have the experience and tools to do it safely and effectively. The cost of professional service is far less than the potential cost of injury or damage from attempting this yourself.
