All, Apparently the fuel pump (in the top of the tank) in my 1990 Ford Orion 1.6i Ghia has given up and so needs replacing. The problem is, the tank is proving very stubborn to get off to actually get at the plate with the pump on. The 'not very helpful' Haynes book (I refuse to call it a manual) says: "Brush away all adhering dirt and disconnect the tank filler pipe and vent pipes from the tank pipe stubs. Additionally on 1986 models onwards, disconnect the filler vent pipe".
I've managed to get the hoses at the front of the tank (one braided, one plastic) disconnected (ok, I ended up cutting them but they should be easy enough to replace), however the fuel filler pipe is being very very stubborn and refusing to come off. So.. What's the best way to get this off and are there likely to be any issues with the rest of the process of removing the pump (requires a special tool and seal?), replacing it and refitting the tank.
My dad has suggested either heating up the joing with a soldering iron (to soften the plastic(?) of the filler pipe, or alternatively soaking a cloth in boiling water and wrapping it around the joint to soften/loosen the thing.
Thanks, Sean.