Gonna drop the fuel tank

[JeepCJ5]

I am going to attempt some rust repairs on the back of my tub with a welder, so I need to drop my gas tank. Questions:

Should I replace the tank? I'm pretty sure it is original.

What else should I do/check/replace while I have the tank down?

Thanks,
Justin

 

[HackFabrication]

Original tank, most likely means original hoses. I'd be replacing the whole lot. Especially any emissions related hoses.

Does your fuel gauge work correctly? If it does, I'd be reluctant to go messing with the sending unit. If it doesn't, pull it out, clean out the tank (assuming it isn't leaking), pour some sealant inside it (there are a lot of different mfg's of them), and put it all back together.

If your present tank is leaking (hey, you may not see the leak right now...). Then it's replacement time.

 

[JeepCJ5]

Thanks - as far as I know it doesn't have any leaks. The gauge sorta works. If the tank is more than half full, it works, but once it is below half, it bounces back and forth between half and full.

The only special hoses I would need are the filler hose and the filler vent hose right? Are the emission control hoses all 3/8" fuel line?

 

[HackFabrication]

The only special hoses I would need are the filler hose and the filler vent hose right? Are the emission control hoses all 3/8" fuel line?

Yes for the filler/vent hoses. The other stuff is either 3/8" fuel line and vacuum line. I'm of no help here, as all that 'stuff' is now gone on my CJ. But mine also has a custom fuel tank, EFI return, and sending unit. Plus the original filler cap has been upgraded to the later model CJ style. I'm a bit far from being OEM...

When you drop the tank, you can measure up the hose/tubing. Other than the pre-bent filler/vent hose, buy bulk.

 

[Peanut Butter]

New tanks are not too expensive. Remove the sending unit by twisting the inside ring to line up with the slots. Look inside, if you see crud, replace it. I put a new tank and sender in mine, was just good insurance against possible problems later. Filler hoses can be purchased at one of the top three parts places. The only other hose is small connections to the fuel lines at the tank. Some people like to put a 20 gal tank in instead of the OEM 15 gal. You can do this, but you need to do a new skid plate too. Cost wise, an extra portable fuel can is cheaper.

One other thing, there is the obvious bottom strap that holds the tank in, but there are also two straps, one on each side, that may give you some trouble. Good luck with whatever you decide to do. Here's a picture of what it looks like without the tub:

 

[JeepCJ5]

Thanks Rod, those photos are very helpful.

 

[Petescj]

I have a brand new 15 gallon tank here. Pm me if interested.