Fuel Tank: Testing and Inspection
The contents of this article reflects the changes identified in TSB 06-015, March 31,2006Natural Gas Fuel Tank Inspection
Background
Honda requires the fuel tank in all natural gas vehicles to be inspected for deterioration or damage every three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is also a federal government requirement.
Note: This bulletin supersedes the natural gas fuel tank inspection procedure in the service manual.
Inspection Procedure
Note:
- You must be a Honda NGV-certified technician to do the fuel tank inspection or replacement work.
- You can become Honda NGV-certified by completing Honda's natural gas vehicle modules GXC1 2 and GXS12 Civic GX Fuel Tank Inspection. For more information, refer to the Online University.
- It is not necessary to remove the fuel tank from the vehicle for inspection.
- Wear gloves when inspecting the fuel tank to protect your hands from potential sharp edges or carbon fibers.
1. Remove the rear seat:
2. Remove the trunk floor lid and the trunk partition:
3. Check the tank expiration date. If the tank is expired, replace it.
4. Using a flashlight and an inspection mirror, thoroughly check the exterior of the fuel tank for
- Excessive rust on the bands or the mounting frame
- Abrasions
- Cuts
- Dents
- Expansion or deformation
- Evidence of overheating
- Loose fuel tank frame bolts, and loose fuel tank band bolts and nuts
- Improper alignment of the tank and the bands NOTE: The horizontal alignment marks should be close, but they do not have to be perfect. Expansion of the fuel tank can cause the marks to move slightly.
5. If you find any of the issues listed above, refer to Honda NGV module GXC12 for further diagnostic information.
6. Mark the label on the tank with your Honda NGV- certified stamp, and use a permanent marker to write the date below your stamp.