Thoughts on plastic fuel tanks

[Rockymountainsparky]

Has anyone used a plastic fuel tank? My 36 3 window coupe project has one, but I'm not sure about them. Could static be a problem?

[19Fordy]

I installed a polypropylene tank made by TANKS Inc. in my 40 Ford about 10 years ago. I think it holds 2 more gallons. The biggest problem was that the stock 40 gas tank sending unit could not be used because the bolt holes in the tank didn't match the holes in the OEM tank. Plus, TANK's tank does not work on gravity feed like the OEM. A separate TANKS pick up unit must be used and fuel line rerouted. Also ran a separate ground wire from sending unit to frame, Plus the plastic tank does not have a drain plug like the oem. I made one. Also, the larger size of the plastic tank places it closer to the exhaust pipe. Additionally, if you want you 36 to look stock a plastic tank doesn't come close.

My advice is to stick with a steel 1936 Ford tank that matches the stock unit so that everything fits as it should with no hassle. The 2 extra gallons of gas isn't worth all the trouble and you will have to use a 12V gauge and matching sending unit.

Be sure to get feedback from someone who has already installed a plastic tank in their 1935 or 36 Ford.

[Ggmac]

I’m about to install one in my 41 . The issues 19Fordy are exact , I wanted a long term solution to the alcohol fuel . I recently installed a Drake tank in my other 41 , while there are no issues I think eventually someone will need to replace or repair it . Hopefully long after my caretaker obligation of it .
They are grounded to the frame and by the sender . It’s set up for a in tank fuel pump if needed .

[Ol' Ron]

I like to use the after market fuel tanks with the electric fuel pumps Have one in my 47 Int from a Fors PU now I don't need the one on the engine.. I also use an electric Fan Quiter and more efficient. Bring the old cars & trucks up to some modern equipment for lass problems in the future.
Gramps

[petehoovie]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

I installed a polypropylene tank made by TANKS Inc. in my 40 Ford about 10 years ago. I think it holds 2 more gallons. The biggest problem was that the stock 40 gas tank sending unit could not be used because the bolt holes in the tank didn't match the holes in the OEM tank. Plus, TANK's tank does not work on gravity feed like the OEM. A separate TANKS pick up unit must be used and fuel line rerouted. Plus the plastic tank does not have a drain plug like the oem. I made one. Also, the larger size of the plastic tank places it closer to the exhaust pipe. Additionally, if you want you 36 to look stock a plastic tank doesn't come close.

My advice is to stick with a steel 1936 Ford tank that matches the stock unit so that everything fits as it should with no hassle. The 2 extra gallons of gas isn't worth all the trouble and you will have to use a 12V gauge and matching sending unit.

Be sure to get feedback from someone who has already installed a plastic tank in their 1935 or 36 Ford.

[paul2748]

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I have a poly tank in my 48. been there 30 years or more. Absolutely ZERO problems with 10 % gas.

[Rockymountainsparky]

Thanks for all the input.

[Flathead Fever]

Most new cars use them, they don't get rust in them like metal tanks do. On Early Fords I'm more of an original guy, or maybe an old hot rodder. I stick to the metal tanks. Depends on if you're restoring a car or building a street rod.

[Ol' Ron]

Restoration works, are different than a Daley driver!!
Gramps

[GB SISSON]

I agree with Ol' Ron. If I were restoring a car (or truck) to original, nothing would do but an original type steel tank. But to run around in an old ford on a day to day basis and then put away for the winter months with gas in the tank, I see no reason not to use a poly tank. I have one between the frame rails of my truck based woodie going on 8 years now. At all times the fuel in the glass bowl at the fuel pump is as clear as drinking water. One less thing to worry about, and I like it when I have less things to worry about!

[aussie merc]

again its all about the quality

[TJ]

I have used both. And agree with Jim(19Fordy) about the issues you may encounter with the plastic tank. To use the stock sender on the plastic tank I used an adapter and it worked well. I think it all comes down to personal preference on what you want to do with your car.

[Jack E/NJ]

The future is in plastics.

[34pickup]

The only experience I have had with a plastic tank is the one in my tractor. The vibration has caused it to crack and leak. I have had to repair it twice.

[cmbrucew]

Works okay in a boat.
Bruce

[Planojc]

On my 35, I went with a Tanks, steel tank with their tanks sending unit hooked up to a 36 fuel gauge which fits perfect in my 35 dash. The fuel filler neck had to be modified using a rubber hose to connect to the tank instead of the spanner connection.