I got the gas tank out of my '69 yesterday. It was a real b#$%^! Are there any tricks to installing it? Do I have to remove the sender? On the plus side I found a really nice build sheet on the tank.

Thanks,

Matt

Congrats on finding a build-sheet on your tank!! You have found the Holy Grail! I've had the tank out of my '74 several times, and agree it's a PITA, but I've always taken it out & installed it w/sender in place. It's hard to hold the tank up, put the straps on, make sure the insulators arein place, and start the bolts on the support. I'm sure it would be easier w/two people, but I don't have any friends! My only suggestion is to take your time, and make sure you have all the bolts & wrenches under there with you when you start. Have patience, Grasshopper!

Good deal on the build sheet!!!!!!!!!!!!

You should be able to reinstall the tank with sender in place.

Thanks Guys.

 

Matt

[QUOTE=MattK]

I got the gas tank out of my '69 yesterday. It was a real b#$%^! Are there any tricks to installing it? [/QUOTE]

Matt,

I just drained my tank today on my '72 before company arrived and derailed the rest of the job.  How much of the exhaust system did you have to undo before the tank could come out?  I'm hoping that by loosening one muffler and nudging it enough out of the way I can get the tank out. Any gorry details would be appreciated.

JR

JR, I'm replacing the exhaust at the same time, so mine was off before I started. As much as I had to fight with it, I'd say both mufflers would probably have to come off. Others here may have done it with their exhaust still on the car and may be able to offer more insight.

Good luck,

Matt 

It's been a while since I had a tank out, but I don't think the mufflers have to be removed. It may give you a bit more wobble room though. Maybe just loosen the hangers.

Matt,

I replaced my tank in October.  I was able to leave my mufflers on but I had to spread them to the outside.  The previous owner had just replaced the system, so they were pretty easy to move around.  Personally, the tank went in easier then it came out.  The harder I pushed the more it resisted, then it just popped into place. 

I made a photocopy of my build sheet, laminated it & glued it (another member's suggestion) to the top of the tank where the original was & I also pre-glued (Silicone) the anti squeak pads top the tank & straps the day before I put the tank in.

I used this drying time to inspect the back side, sand the frame and repaint it.  I was also replacing the rear suspension at the time. 

As for the sending unit, I put mine in after the tank was in because it wasn't shipped with the tank.  I still would have waited to install it just to make sure that I didn't bend the neck during install or if I dropped it.  While I was at it, I replaced the rubber boot, overflow hose and all related hoses, straps, clamps, etc.

Good luck,

Anthony

Good info, guys, thanks!

JR

Thanks Anthony, good info, especially about siliconing the anti squeak pads on.

 

Matt