Moving the fuel tank in a 2013 VLX

[YNautSki]

I need to pull the v-drive in my 2013 VLX to replace the output shaft flange seal. I have a pretty good trans fluid leak. In order to pull the v-drive Malibu says I need about 5 inches of clearance behind the v-drive to get the v-drive separated from the trans unit. Right now there is maybe 1 1/2" clearance between the v-drive and the fuel tank. Therefore, the fuel tank needs to slide back (towards the bow) several inches. Assuming all hoses and wiring are disconnected, has anyone had any experience sliding / moving the fuel tank to get clearance? BTW, my fuel tank (42 gal) is currently full so I'm pretty sure I'll need to drain it to lighten it up (42 x 6 lbs/gal = 252 lbs). 

[JeffK]

Yes. You can use a large prybar and it should slide forward easily, after you drain some fuel of course. 

[wdr]

Not sure about your 2013, but I have aluminum braces fore and aft of the fuel tank. I only have about 3” between the ballast pumps midship and the fuel tank as well. You may be able to pull the floor panel up and lift up and pull the tank forward far enough to gain the clearance you need. 

[robbennett]

If it has been leaking I would drain all of the fuel and remove it so you can clean up under there. 

[boardjnky4]

I had to do the same when I took the V-Drive out of my A22. It wasn't full, though.

But yeah, just remove all of the brackets and use a pry bar or a chunk of 2x4 or something. It'll move. I had enough slack in my hoses (and enough of the boat taken apart), that I was able to slide it far enough without removing all the hoses. Your mileage may vary.