Fuel Tank Protector 2007 toyota camry xle
Asked by Sharath Dec 27, 2012 at 11:31 AM about the 2007 Toyota Camry XLE V6
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
My fuel tank protector/shield (between the tank and exhaust) was of two of its end and had been welded back for some time (more than a year). Few days ago it completely came apart on all the ends and I guess fell off. How important is it? Does it need to be replaced asap? Do I go to a dealer to get it fixed or what would be the best option? Kindly advice.
6 Answers
I don't really know how important the shield is. It keeps exhaust heat away from the tank and Toyota thought it was important enough to use it. Without it, the gas in the tank will be warmer. There is a possibility that vapor lock could occur with the warm fuel. Try calling the local scrap yards to get a replacement shield. Any repair shop should be able to install it. The dealer is the last place I would go. Dealers would sell a brand new (thus more expensive) shield that would have to be special ordered.
I am not sure how it would help as based on the part number from dealer #77631-06060; it is a small/thin sheet of aluminum i guess that barely covers one side of the tank (not even entirely) to the left hand side of the exhaust and the rest is over the exhaust and bolted above it. If it was completely covering the entire base of the tank I would consider it extremely important, but am not sure. Here is a link on the part diagram (#3): http://www.midatlantictoyotaparts.com/oem-part/toyota/camry-parts/2010/se/2-5l-l4-gas/fuel-system/fuel-system-components/tank-shield/77631-06060 Please advice!!!
Try driving around with out it. You probably won't have any problems until it gets warm next summer. Replace it if the car looses power on a hot day.
Plastic fuel tank with hot metal exhaust. You should get it put back on. I would be more worried about the fire hazard than a vapor lock condition. And as far as trying to find used instead of new... A used on is going to be fatigued and rusty. How long you figure that one will last?
I had to replace that shield on my 07 Camry. The replacement that I bought on line was made of galvanized steel and it is a Toyota made part. The issue with the mounting bolts being made of steel and the part was aluminum causes galvanic corrosion. I coated the new part with epoxy to insulate the part from the bolt and should no longer get any corrosion between them. Part cost was about $55.
Mark, which epoxy did you use? Do you remember? I have to change the protector plate and would like to coat it before installing it. Will appreciate a reply. Thanks.
