I need to drain full fuel tank to replace fuel pump. syphon hose will not go into tank because of safety screen or whatever. now what?

are you sure that you need to drain the tank? granted, the job would be easier, but it can probably be done with a full tank. is there a access plate for the fuel pump somewhere in your trunk? If not, then it is probably easier to drop the tank. you might be able to disconnect the fuel line at the filter, and get gas out there, but dang hard to get the car high enough to drain into gas cans. without an access plate, the job is a bitch, but you may be stuck with dropping the tank.

ended up just pulling it out full. very carefully mind you, but got it done. put back in tomorrow. thanks

Kaboom. Very dangerous. Gas fumes will ignite on a whim. Use good ventilation, make sure your medical insurance is paid up and your will is in order. OMG, cutting corners is what keeps doctors wealthy. Good luck, hope it is successful but if you get it done, don't do it again like that. I've seen too many fires and deaths with people handling gas tanks that have not been emptied and vented first. It may be a pain in the a-- to drain and vent the tank first, but it is better than being in a burn ward or morgue.

It's the emptier tanks that have room for more fumes to create an explosion.