Cleaning out a gas tank

[freddiecougar]

Now that I have my ignition problem sorted, I have a new dilemma. The car sat for 15+ years before I started on it. I drained the tank, but that wasn;t enough. It is still sending mountains of garbage through the fuel system. What is the best method for cleaning out a gas tank? I am taking it out of the car tomorrow, but I need to know what to do to actually get it clean inside. Anyone have any tips?
Tim

 

[CarFreakGT]

I have a similar situation w/ my 68. It was sitting for an undetermined amount of time when I got it. Upon start-up, the diaphragm of the fuel pump was eroded.

I considered trying to clean out the tank. But, I was able to get an entire new tank kit for under $100. I've yet to install it, as I'm hoping to yank the engine soon--no sense in installing a new tank, put a little gas in, and then let it sit again.

Like you, I couldn't stand sending all that nasty gunk through the fuel system.

I don't know your situation. But, honestly, I'd consider a new tank if you can afford it.

Which of your cars is it for, the '66?

 

[CarFreakGT]

FYI--Just using Mustangs Unlimited as a quick, convenient source:

>65-68 16-gal tank w/o drain plug $84.95 + S/H
Mustangs Unlimited - The Premier Source for Mustang, Shelby and Cougar Parts and Accessories

>same as above w/ drain plug $89.95 + S/H
Mustangs Unlimited - The Premier Source for Mustang, Shelby and Cougar Parts and Accessories

Good luck!

Bryan

 

[downwardspiral]

+1.. buy a new one

 

[Max Power]

Tim, I know your time is more valuable than wasting it cleaning out a tank worth less than $100 new!

 

[Randy'65]

Eastwood sells a chemical etching system to clean the tank - it cost's more than one of the new American Designers tanks. Just buy the new tank.

 

[tx65coupe]

I'll add another vote for a new tank. It will save alot of grief later.

 

[freddiecougar]

I had no clue that tanks were that cheap....I never would have bothered to post the question if I knew that! I ended up with a 20 gal tank for a 69. It was FREE (from a stalled project belonging to a friend), and I just had to modify the filler neck. Easy solution!
Thanks for the help, everyone.
Tim

 

[tx65coupe]

I wanted to go with the extra capacity tank like that but was worried it would hang down and show under the valance. Does yours hang down?

 

[freddiecougar]

I wanted to go with the extra capacity tank like that but was worried it would hang down and show under the valance. Does yours hang down?

A little bit. Not much, and it certainly isn't something that jumps out at you. I will get a picture for you. The biggest difference is in the trunk, the tank is definitely taller. My trunk mat fit differently, and you lose a little depth.
Tim

 

[StangDreamin']

+25 on the new tank! One for my '73 is gonna cost $179; but it would be worth it to keep cam break-in from being cut short by a big goober of the nasty-smelling cr@p in my tank clogging up the carb.

From what I can see/read; you "pre-71 guys" have it easier in that the mods to re-angle the Mustang filler neck for a Cougar are a lot less extreme than on the big Cats. On the other hand, the last place from which I looked at a gas tank, was selling the 71-2-3 Coog tanks for the same price as the Stang tanks; and the drawings indicated they were definitely NOT the same tank for different vehicles.

As for "upsizing".... I were in your situation; I'd be willing to lose an inch or so of trunk depth if the trade-off was a couple more gallons of fuel!