Need help draining fuel tank on 300e/300ce
 

I want to swap out from my parts car the long thick hose that goes from the gas tank strainer to the fuel filter. In order to remove this hose safely I would think that the gas tank first must be emptied. Since I'll be under the car already, what's the recommended way to get the gas out? Also, any suggestions on removing/installing this big hose? Thanks.

The recommended way is to use a pinch clamp on the large hose.

http://www.peachparts.com/diy/mb_tools/mb_tools.php?page=16

called a fuel line clamp, ST12975.

I used a vice grip and some wood. I recommend getting all new hoses.

Warren,
The Haynes manual contains a "tool tip" that suggests, when changing the fuel filter, putting 13mm sockets over the ends of a vice grip to fashion a home-made tool. To get the fuel out of the tank prior to disconnecting the hose, would you just unclip the hose clamp at the fuel filter, disconnect that end of the hose and drain it into a container, or is there an easier way to get the fuel out? BTW, I'm debating getting new hoses, but thought that in any event I'd do a practice run on this DIY on the parts car. Thanks.