1979 F-150 4x4 Front Fuel Tank Replacement
 

Hi Everyone,

I recently picked up a '79 Ranger 4x4. The front tank is plastic and has this metal (for lack of a better word) shroud around it. This protective box (shroud) is pretty rusted out. I can't find anyplace that sells a replacement. I looked on FMC and NPD.

However, new steel replacement tanks are available. Can I just take out the protective box and the plastic tank and replace them with a new metal tank and mount it in the same mounting holes?

Also, there are 20.2 and 22.5 gallon capacity takes available. I'd like the extra 2 gallons if that tank will fit my rig. Does anybody know if the 22.5 gallon tank will fit on a '79 F-150?

Thanks,
Joe

Are you sure those capacities are the front and not the behind the axle tank? But yes, it should mount without the shield. Just make sure the straps have something between them and the tank. This would be an example of why I keep old inner tubes around.

LMC is selling front/side fuel tanks in 20.2 or 22.5 capacities. If the larger tank would fit, I wouldn't mind having the extra couple of gallons available.

The inner tube idea is a good one. Thank you. I don't know where I'd get one though.

these days it's probably just as easy to get a tube from Amazon, I got mine from NAPA. I don't have any experience with the front tank pre 1980. The 30 gal Bronco tank will go right in behind the axle, but then you gotta carry the spare in the bed.