To Replace or Not to Replace

[redidbull]

This tank is from my 89 F150. I am pretty sure I had a bad pump so I decided to drop the tank and replace it. I don't know a lot of history on this and it may have sat for a while. My question should I replace this tank? It is not leaking and I will clean it well if it is decided to keep it. Thanks. Jim

 

[DozerII]

If the inside looks clean and the exterior rust is just surface and no pitting I would just clean it inside and out, then paint the outside.

 

[Dr Crankenstein]

If you're confident it's solid and won't leak, have it steam cleaned (internally) and put it back together.

After the cleaning, I would fill it with water and double check for leaks. If it's good, carry on and throw a bottle of methyl hydrate (gas line antifreeze) in it to absorb any residual water...

.

 

[redidbull]

There is not a steam cleaner near me. Would a pressure do the job with fuel system cleaner cleaner solution? Thanks. Jim

 

[Skip]

There is not a steam cleaner near me. Would a pressure do the job with fuel system cleaner cleaner solution? Thanks. Jim

When I had a pressure washer business, I cleaned a few fuel tanks successfully. At up to 2000 psi, they will find any rust holes most of the time, too. Good luck!

 

[Dr Crankenstein]

Do the best you can with what you have!

.

 

[redidbull]

Unfortunately it looks like I am going to have to get a new one. The pump is so rusted in and some of the rust on the top looks worse than I thought. Thanks for the help. Jim

 

[DozerII]

I would say you made the right decision.

 

[soltz]

I would say you made the right decision.

Ditto!!![cl

 

[donsrods]

Ditto 2. Rock Auto has them cheap, even with shipping.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/ford,1989,f-150,5.8l+351cid+v8,1121858,fuel+&+air,fuel+tank,6268

 

[redidbull]

Thank you. Rockauto prices are the best I've seen on a tank. Jim