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I started to replace the fuel sending unit/strainer in my 69. This has lead to me thinking about replacing the gas tank as well. There are various vendors with prices ranging from $150-$300. I don’t care to spend money on a quality product but I of course don’t want to spend unnecessarily. Does anyone have any experience and recommendations on the subject?
That's nothing, I had to get 3 stitches just above my knee, damm those tanks have razor sharp corners.....
Was laying on my back, holding the tank up with my knees whilst i was trying to get it into position by myself.
It slipped and the corner went deep into my flesh.
A few curse words were spoken that day.
Not to be someone who doesn't like spending other people's money, but have you looked all around the inside floor of the tank with a flashlight? Unless you see corrosion spots, you don't need to replace it. Water sinks and forms a layer under the gas; it's this concentrated contact with the steel that rusts out tanks. My '67 tank is original and looks like shiny clean metal in there.
The bottom’s not terrible but there are a few spots of rust. However there’s a line around the 3/4 mark where rust goes up to the top of the tank. I’m not sure if it matters but the previous owner used nothing but ethanol fuel and I doubt he ever put any stabilizer or additives to minimize water damage. I hate to spend money but I thought since I was already replacing the sending unit, a new tank may be a good idea. Thanks everyone. I really appreciate everyone’s input and expertise.
If you do need one you might give Rockauto a look. They sell Spectra tanks, which I believe have good reviews.
I replaced mine with a spectra tank from rock auto. Perfect fit. Quality piece, I believe Spectra is the main supplier to restoration retail vendors. Check and crosscheck part numbers and descriptions to ensure you get the right tank. Many vendors use the spectra part number. Use spray adhesive to hold down anti rattle strips when reinstalling the tank. Also for the cork gasket at filler neck, make sure to use sealant such as high tack that will not be affected by gasoline. No silicone.
The Quanta tanks are licensed to use O.L. Anderson logo and are for correct OEM restorations.
Spectra tanks sound like they are good, with good reviews, but don't have the embossed logo...
It all comes down to your preference..
The bottom’s not terrible but there are a few spots of rust. However there’s a line around the 3/4 mark where rust goes up to the top of the tank. I’m not sure if it matters but the previous owner used nothing but ethanol fuel and I doubt he ever put any stabilizer or additives to minimize water damage. I hate to spend money but I thought since I was already replacing the sending unit, a new tank may be a good idea. Thanks everyone. I really appreciate everyone’s input and expertise.
Gotcha. Unless it's really pitted you can probably get along just fine with it as is since it's more than likely just surface corrosion. I think this is type of rust is caused by storing the car where temperature cycles create condensation on the tank walls. Storing ethanol fuel certainly doesn't help. Always fill the tank up all the way prior to storage to limit the amount of air (thus moisture) in the tank.
Quanta. Don’t scrimp on something as important as a gas tank.
Both my 58 and 70 have Quanta tanks. Looks like they are an exact fit/exact duplicates. I don't regard them as being particularly expensive.
Rust: Removing my original 70 tank....it looked good on the outside. Yes aged but not rusty. Struggling to pull it out, I dinged it with a tool and it punctured a hole in the tank! It had rusted on the inside so extensively that the metal was just paper thin! I'm glad I decided to replace it.
I bought my new tank from Holly.
Its the direct replacement tank and exactly like the original.
Tanks Inc also makes a quality direct replacement tank.
Well, I appreciate everyone’s input but I need some more advice. I’m torn between buying a Rockauto replacement for $179 or a Quanta tank for $278. The Quanta tank is an original replacement with the original logo stamped into the tank. I’m wondering if it’s worth the extra $100 to put an original equipment part. The car is all original but it’s nothing special. Just a bare boned 350 with no options. But it’s in good shape so I want to do it right and keep as much value as possible.
Well, I appreciate everyone’s input but I need some more advice. I’m torn between buying a Rockauto replacement for $179 or a Quanta tank for $278. The Quanta tank is an original replacement with the original logo stamped into the tank. I’m wondering if it’s worth the extra $100 to put an original equipment part. The car is all original but it’s nothing special. Just a bare boned 350 with no options. But it’s in good shape so I want to do it right and keep as much value as possible.
MelWff make an important point.
Where are both tanks made?
If one is made in the USA and the other in China, India or someplace else, it’s a no brainer.
Unless your going for NCRS judging, nobody but you will know it has any stamps on it.
Buy the better quality direct replacement.
Replacement Gas Tank
