This is my first post here. I'm really wanting to buy this '83 F-150 4X4, it's in really good shape and they only want $1500. My problem is the gas tank leaks. So how hard is it to replace the tank, it's the rear tank by the way. Is the fuel pump in the tank? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Mike

 

simple job, no the fuel pump isn't in the tank, it should be on the side of the engine. Unless the engine if fuel injected it doesn't need the constant high pressure of an eletric pump. All your engine needs is around 7psi of fuel pressure. The tank should be held up by two staps, the only problem you might have is rust and stuck hoses. Good luck

 

Not a bad job. I just did the rear tank on my '95 about a month ago. Actually in your case the biggest PITA would most likely be the bolts themselves (probably old and rusted) and snaking the filler hose out from the frame rail.

What I did for the filler hose was unbolt the filler end from the body and pull out the fitting and inner hose through the wheel well. There is actually a small hose inside the big filler hose. Once you do that, you can push the tank end of the hose over the frame rail. Might be easier in your case as you can just use some muscle. In my case I had to be careful as I have the in tank pump and had to drop it down enough to disconnect the fuel fittings.

Also, do a search on fuel tanks or gas tanks. If I remember correctly someone had a link to an online source and the tank was only $120 or so. The local Ford dealer gets double that.

 

Thanks a lot fellas. I didn't want to get in over my head, but this sounds pretty easy. I look forward to posting more on this board.

Thanks again
Mike

 

Not a problem. You will find that SOMEONE one this site has already done it, regardless of what it is.

Before I forget..... The straps themselves were farily inexpensive at the dealer. The upper straps have a plastic piece on them to avoid metal to metal contact. The lower support pieces haven't changed.

Also one more thing you may want to check. On my truck the receiver hitch extends to slightly inside the frame rails. I got the old tank out with it on, but took it off to get the new one back in. If your truck has a hitch, check it out.