fuel gauge sender unit

bought a cool big magnet on a bendy arm thing, and was gonna take off fuel gauge sender unit and go fishin for metal crap in my tank, before I flush and replace the filter.

Unfortunately I haven't the time or funds to completely replace the tank, as one paul_c suggested, but this is going on the to do list for when I come back from Europe.

Anyway, a car expert neighbour saw me about to remove this unit when he stopped me and warned that it was a B*tch to get back on, and not worth the bother, apparently the sealer ring seems to grow on removal, making replacement near impossible…

So my fellows? Is it worth it? Shall I do it? Do i need a replacement ring before I remove it?

Also, said neighbour discovered I needed a new rotor arm and distributor cap, as the rotor arm seems to have arched and is scraping the indide of the cap??? Really not learning about the mechanics of cars as quickly as I'd like to….

Ordered a direct replacement fuel filter today, for fear the wee one was too wee, pick it up on wednesday.

Was hopin gto fit new fuel filler neck today, but unfortunately fellow forum member never got in touch, I'm assuming for a legitimate reason, so I've ordered a tintop version, and am going to try and replace this before I go away on Saturday.  Is there anything I need to order to replace it? or is it just remove-replace, keeping all connections as they are?

New plan…..

Following consensus : magnet the tank or don't > replace filler neck > flush system with redex, though I think this is just for my injectors > replace fuel filter > put on shorts, shades suncream….head to dover!


Thoughts?

Really appreciate replies, asap, away on saturday and beginnning to brick it a bit.

Thanks a million if you've even read this far!


Tony

P.S. MoreTh>n cover, ?120 for the year incl. european assistance….result.

edit:

fellow forum member is a legend.  Legitimate and very sad reason was due to a fire in his mk1 GTI !!! I daresay the nicest one I've seen.

Sorted me out with filler neck tonight, and a couple of axle stands to help me out!! I'll do my best to replace in the morning!

Good luck fixing the golf mate, I am absolutely no use at doing anything, but here if you need me!! (til saturday anyway)