PDA

View Full Version : Remote Fuel Release- Anyone Else Notice?



TJH
12-05-2003, 07:29 AM
Anyone else notice on the 300A remote fuel door release, that it can be defeated within, literally, SECONDS?
I was considering replacing my 300B non-remote fuel door, with the earlier remote release. BUT- I took a close look at this in one of our teardown studions the other day, and found that ANYONE could defeat the security that this system apparently offers. I wanted to take a close look at the release mechanism and latch, but unfortunately, there was no battery in this car. Using nothing more than my plastic comb, I was able to pup the door open without hardly trying. Just by slipping something as small and weak as that plastic comb in from the rear of the fuel filler door, and sliding it down onto the latch, you can pop the door easily.
So much for the security offered...
Also, the latch itself appears to be made of the same material as that used on the remote fuel door on my wife's 1995 SHO. The one that was replaced TWICE, before we just gave up after it broke the third time. I finally defeated the pop-out spring (so as to allow the door to snap closed without the latch to hold it in that position), and haven't had a problem with breakage since.
Just curious if any of you have experienced a failure of the plastic catch on your Marauder remote door? As for me, I guess I'll stick with my non-remote, given the limited benefit and high cost of retrofit...

RF Overlord
12-05-2003, 07:37 AM
TJH raises a good point...we shouldn't be relying on the fuel door release for security...

Does anyone have a locking cap on their MM?

Part Number? Where you got it? Price?

2003Marauder
12-05-2003, 07:42 AM
That's why I don't miss it on my '04.

I'd like to get a good locking gas cap also. Hello, Mr. Parts Dealer; any suggestions?

Petrograde
12-05-2003, 08:18 AM
I haven't had any problems with my gas door. I never really concidered it a security devise. It leaves a nice smooth surface, instead of an unsightly notch. Just one of the little extras a $30,000 car should have.

Tom

TheDealer
12-05-2003, 08:44 AM
Locking Gas Cap. Ford part number XU5Z,9030,DA. Retail $48.28
Your Cost $33.80 plus $3.00 shipping!!! Instock!!!!! RAY

Heavy D.
12-05-2003, 09:10 AM
I don't remember the part number, but I got a decent aftermarket one at Autozone for something like $18-$22. Probably any parts store has them.

MapleLeafMerc
12-05-2003, 09:47 AM
I have the remote release door and I agree that it wouldn't keep anyone out who wanted to siphon gas. I don't know if it is wearing or not but I have noticed that it doesn't sit quite as flush with the fender as it used to.

Certainly not a feature anyone should regret not having IMHO.

JohnE
12-07-2003, 06:00 AM
If you're worried about someone putting something in your fuel, go ahead and get a lock. The filler is designed to prevent siphoning. Besides, with the tiny tanks we have there wouldn't be much to get out. On average you'll have what, 8 gallon in there? I'd worry more about a huge SUV with a 40gal tank.

carfixer
12-07-2003, 08:39 AM
Originally posted by MapleLeafMerc
I don't know if it is wearing or not but I have noticed that it (gas door) doesn't sit quite as flush with the fender as it used to.


That is a very common concern with these cars. I've adjusted many of these. There are (2) 5.5mm headed bolts that hold the release mechanism to the fuel filler inner well. They are accessed from the gas door. Take off the gas cap for access, loosen the 2 bolts several turns. Push the release mechanism inward, toward the center of the car and tighten the bolts. It should now fit flush.

MapleLeafMerc
12-07-2003, 03:51 PM
Thanks carfixer!!! :banana:

You've just got to love getting help like this! :beer: If Ford HAD written instructions, they'd be in seventeen languages and take 3 weeks to mail.

:up:

jfclancy
12-08-2003, 12:54 PM
Thanks Car fixer !!!! as to the earlier question I have a locking cap from Autozone, my concern was with someone adding something rather than taking it out.

Joe Clancy