I’ve dropped the tank on mine twice in the 5 years I’ve had her, yes less fuel is better, but mainly for the lift back up the cradle the tank sits on helps with the lowering process due to how the bolts are located, trolley jack is the best option then drain out fuel before refitting. Caution you have to lower it a few inches to get your hand over the top to remove the electrical connector. Don’t forget this when putting back easy mistake to make and make sure pushed in firmly. Both the fuel pipes can be detached at the front of the tank before lowering it. The worst bit is getting the filler neck back in to be honest.
As data says easiest route to test is dropping fuel filter off, cup underneath and see what comes out. Bonne Chance

While the tank is off, use the time to also replace the brake pipes that run over the tank.

Well, turns out it wasn't the fuel pump,, was a bugger of a job, however I am glad I did it as one of the metal elbows just above the fuel pump housing was badly corroded. Turns out its the crankshaft sensor, does anyone know which is the correct one, baring in mind the one that came off is the original BMW one?
Is it part number... XREV495, LCS411, or STC2301.?
Also found one with part number 19175... but not sure about that one.

WayneRR4x4 said:

Well, turns out it wasn't the fuel pump,, was a bugger of a job, however I am glad I did it as one of the metal elbows just above the fuel pump housing was badly corroded. Turns out its the crankshaft sensor, does anyone know which is the correct one, baring in mind the one that came off is the original BMW one?
Is it part number... XREV495, LCS411, or STC2301.?
Also found one with part number 19175... but not sure about that one.

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STC2301. I hope you just removed the sensor from the bracket and not the bracket. With a duff sensor the engine should start but run at high RPM as it is being controlled by injector 4 which only recieves a signal every two revolutions.