fuel tank leaking

[mncontour]

We have a 1999 Ford Contour with 171,xxx miles on it that we just got. I filled the tank on it and it started leaking gas on the passenger side of the tank. Im not sure if its the tank, filler neck, or a fuel line that is leaking. Im just wondering if anyone on here has ever replaced the tank, filler neck, or the fuel lines before and if its hard and if it requires special tools? It stopped leaking after driving it about 100 miles or so. Is this a common problem at all? Thanks for any help or advice.

 

[Smokinjoe]

A rotting fuel filler neck is a common issue on these cars, and unfortunatly, they are discontinued and are very hard to find. The gas tank is plastic and is quite durable. There is a rubber plug that fits between the filler next and fuel tank that can fail.

I dropped my tank to replace my fuel pump a few months ago. I wouldn't want to do it in the driveway. I did mine on a lift with a trans jack to help lower the tank. No special tools required IIRC.

 

[mncontour]

I didn't fill the fuel tank when I put fuel in the tank. I only put in 11 gallons. And there was no sign of a leak. Would this be a sign of a rotten filler neck or that plug failing? If so, any idea where I could possibly find a replacement filler neck or plug? Or would I still have to replace the whole tank? Thanks for any help.