Dear rumrunner99,

Hope you're well. Using the in-tank pump to drain the tank involves:
(a) providing power to the pump, while the car is "off" and (b) opening the fuel system either underneath the car or in the engine bay.

Powering the in-tank pump with the ignition "off" means supplying 12 volts to the pump via the fuel pump connector, in the trunk (if a sedan) or load space (if a wagon). You will then have to disconnect the fuel pipe from the filter (which probably should be changed), and run a hose to a container from the end of the fuel line.

Another approach: access the fuel tank's send unit through the trunk or load space (see the FAQs for the procedure, look under changing fuel tank send unit).

Remove the large, black rubber fuel tank filler hose from the top of the fuel tank's send unit. Put the siphon hose into the tank through the opening for the fuel tank filler hose. You can then remove the fuel. Once you've emptied the tank, replace the rubber fuel filler hose onto the top of the send unit.

I think the second method will be easier and safer.

While you have access to the send unit, apply a penetrating oil to any screw-type clamps. That will ease removal, as/when that's needful.

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,

Spook