Installing new expansion tank straps

[MF64VETTE]

I have a 64 vert that has only one strap around the expansion tank. I ordered two new straps and bolts. Do I need to take out the tank to install the straps? Or is there enough room to do it without removing the tank? Help!

 

[405 bhp @ 6000 rpm]

I had the same thing. You need to take out the battery (what a pain!), but you can leave the tank in. Just slip the straps into the 2 slits found below and above ther tank.

 

[JP1522]

Very easy to do. Remove the bolt at the top of the strap and raise the tank up a couple of inches. The short hose that connects the tank to the "TEE" in the 3/4" heater hose will allow you to raise the tank high enough to slip the two new straps into the slits. Hold the straps away from the tank as you position the tank in place to prevent the straps from falling out of the slits in the lower bracket. Figure about 6 or 7 tries at this. You must hold both straps tight against the tank while starting the top bolts. or they will slip out of the bottom bracket.

 

[youwish2bme]

It's not difficult at all but while I had it out of the way if you don't know the age of the battery I would replace it.. You have to unbolt the tank to get the battery out so why not kill two birds with one stone.. Dave..

 

[Vetsvette2002]

The easiest way to keep the straps in place is to LIGHTLY crimp them in place.
Don

 

[MF64VETTE]

The new straps are on! Thanks for the tips. I didn't need to remove the battery. I was able to lift the tank up high enuf to slip the straps on underneath. Crimped the straps to hold them in place and voila! I had to move the tank closer to the body because the idiot who rigged the one strap had it hanging out too far. I keep discovering little disasters in the engine compartment --- hoses that are too short, bolts that are too long, wires spliced with duct tape, etc.
I've had the car for about two years and I don't know its history because I bought it from a dealer (BIG mistake). I have detailed my fingers to the bone on the body and interior and now am chipping away at the engine compartment. I have cleaned up a lot of the little stuff and put a dressing on the manifolds. The next big project is to degrease the block and repaint it with Chevy orange.