Fuel Tank Replacement

[Elvis]

I continue to get a lot of sediment in my fuel filter so I suppose it is time to replace the tank in my '67 coupe. It appears to me that it is a relatively simple task and that the tank is lifted out of the trunk. Are there any "secrets" that I should be aware of? Thanks. E.

[bmxmon]

one secret i've heard is that you can use a gas tank out of a 69-73 mustang, which upgrades your tank size to 20 gallons. Make sure you check the years, im not 100% on that. (the year of tank you can use) I believe i read it in a mustang and fords article, might want to check out their website plus others responses before going through with it ovbiously. I've never taken a gas tank out of a mustang, but it doesnt seem like it should be that difficult for ya. Good luck.

[Elvis]

I'm going to try to keep this project as simple as possible. I don't really drive enough to require a larger tank so I think that I'll stick with the 16 gallon tank. They don't seem to be very expensive but I have been told to get a Ford sending unit because the ones that come with the kits don't last. The Ford sending units cost quite a bit more but it is probably worth it. Any thoughts? E.

[okiedragster]

ive also used the tank coating too it works pretty good if yours hasnt rusted through, have to follow instructions to the "t" ,buts its pretty inexpensive. ive used it alot on some vintage bike restos where i had to salvage the old tank because another one wasnt to be found. just another alternative you might wanna try....see ya

[Gearhead999]

Fuel tank replacement isn't a big deal.

Run tank low on fuel or empty. [makes tank more managable weight wise]
Disconnect the fuel line and the gauge wire at the sender.
Pull the inside trunk mat out.
Disconnect the filler pipe and hose and remove.
Remove screws holding tank to trunk floor.
Lift tank out.
Reverse above for install.

As far as the sender goes...Sure the Ford one is better. But, it isn't a big deal to replace the sender, if it goes bad, later.

One comment I do have. Take couple minutes and replace the two rubber fuel lines while you're under there. One at the sender and the other on the line up forward around where the door meets the fender. Cheap insurance.

[Rev]

Originally Posted by Gearhead999

As far as the sender goes...Sure the Ford one is better. But, it isn't a big deal to replace the sender, if it goes bad, later.

The repop Taiwanese senders are not really very accurate, buy they are cheap (around $30 or so). I did have to adjust mine to make the gauge read the the way I wanted it to.

I had to actually shorten the wire bar that holds the float, and then bend it a little. I did that over several tries, taking the sender in and out each time. Be sure to use new seals between the sender and the tank and lube them with vaseline .Also be sure to get them alligned just right when you rotate that locking ring on the sender to tighten it down. I did finally get mine to read a little past the "F" on the upside when full and a little past the "E" on the downside when empty,which is how I wanted it.

Rev

[Elvis]

Well, I just tried to order a tank (without drain) from Texas Mustang Parts and they tell me they can only provide the one with a drain. I have heard that the drains are a problem as they leak. Should I look around for a tank without a drain or do you think that a tank with a drain would be OK. Thanks for your help. E.

[Kisner]

I replaced mine 7 years ago with one that had a drain and (knock on wood) it hasn't leaked a drop.

[okiedragster]

well the drain is a plus for me since i store mine in winter months, but ive never had a leaking problem so far...

[Gearhead999]

Get the one with the drain. Put some teflon liquid on the plug threads if it will make you feel safer.

[SCHOONER]

Originally Posted by Gearhead999

Get the one with the drain. Put some teflon liquid on the plug threads if it will make you feel safer.

Hi Again, Gearhead999

I've used Teflon Tape, but never heard of ' TEFLON LIQUID '
Why is it better than lets say; Lock Tight or the other ones?

Thanks Guy

GOD BLESS

Schooner

[Gearhead999]

It's a liquid sealant, like pipe dope, that has teflon in it. Advantage of it over the tape is. It gets into the threads a little easier then the tape. It is easier to use then the tape too.

I wouldn't use Lock Tight on the plug. You might want to remove it. Also, it is a pipe thread, which is tapered, and doesn't need the locking of Loktite..

[SCHOONER]

Hey Gearhead999

Got it at: LOEWS its cost is $4.99 for (4) oz.
Thanks Gear...999

[Elvis]

OK, it is done. I put the new tank in yesterday. No problems except for the mouthful of gas I got when I tried to siphon the last of the fuel out of the tank. The inside of the old one was a mess. Lots rust, etc. I'm surprised that the car ran at all with the garbage that was being sent from the tank. Thanks for all the advice. E.