For this method, you’ll want two lengths of tubing - one long enough to reach deep into the gas tank and another, shorter length of tubing that will reach just inside the tank. Either obtain two separate lengths of tubing or cut one length of tubing to make two smaller lengths - the effect is the same.
If you’re having trouble creating a tight seal, try soaking your rag in water and ringing it out, then packing it around your tubes. Wet rags generally create a tighter seal than dry ones.
If you’re having difficulty, make sure you have a tight seal around your tubes. It’s essential to ensure that air can neither enter nor leave the gas tank except through the short length of tubing.
If the gas in the tube won’t flow back into the tank when you want to stop siphoning, ensure that the short tube is free of obstruction and, if necessary, remove the seal around the tubes. Air needs to be able to escape the tank to make space for the gas flowing back in.
These pumps allow you to safely and easily siphon gas without getting your hands dirty or risking exposure to gas fumes. As such, they’re ideal choices for cautious-minded individuals.
Note: siphon pumps have one designated end that liquid enters and another end from which liquid leaves. Ensure that the correct ends of the tubing are being used. If arranged backwards, the pump will simply push air into the gas tank. [9] X Research source
Most hand-operated pumps only require a few pumps to get liquid flowing - after this, gas should flow freely. Automatic pumps may or may not need to be left on throughout the pumping process. Consult any instructions provided with your siphon pump for more information.
Some siphon pumps need to be cleaned after use. Consult any provided instructions for more information - often, all that’s necessary is to pump a mixture of soap and water through the device and let it air dry.
If you’ve been exposed to gasoline in any way and begin to exhibit symptoms, call the emergency services or your local poison control central immediately.
Try to position the tube so that you’re sucking directly above the tank. According to some sources, air bubbles are more common when the tube runs to the side, rather than up and down.
Alternatively, simply cover the free end of the tubing and lift it higher than the level of gas in the tank. Gravity will cause the gas to flow back into the tank. You can even lift the gas can itself while the tube is still in it for the same effect.
