Rattle in 1996 Camry Fuel Tank

[Andy Y]

Need information pertinent to possible causes and subsequent repair of a rattle in the fuel tank of a 1996 Toyota Camry.

[95_civic_gsr]

I don't know anything about Toyota Fuel tanks, but since no one else has answered, here are a few thoughts to consider.

All fuel tanks have a sending unit, fuel pump and baffles inside. Unless someone put something in your tank, it should be one of the above. There is a strainer on the end of your fuel pump. It is possibly that the strainer/filter fell off and is rattling around. If your fuel gauge isn't working, its possible that your float fell off the sending unit. If the car has sat for any lengthy time, its possible that the baffles rusted. The baffles keep the fuel in place as you turn around corners, stop and accelerate. Otherwise your fuel pump will starve for fuel, and your car will cut out in the turns or at stops. If that is happening, then you know what your problem is. Some baffles are welded in, and some are glued in. The glue may have failed.

The only real way of checking is to either drop your fuel tank, or take off the fuel pump access panel and look inside. A magnet on a stick will be helpful to stick through the access port, if the loose part is metal. You might also be able to get a strong magnet to move the metal parts in the tank without dropping the tank. Meaning, while under the car, move a high power magnet under your fuel tank, and listen for any parts inside the tank moving around following the magnet. This will not help you if your filter/pick up tube fell off your fuel pump, as they are normally plastic.