slammerman788

I have a 1989 pickup that needs a new fuel tank but I dont want to spend very much money (under $50). What should I do?

millball

It's a free country, you don't have to want to spend $50, but if you want your truck to run, you might have to spend it and some more to boot.

JasonYota

iTrader: (1)

Why do you need a new fuel tank? What's wrong with your current one?

dropzone

iTrader: (6)

Save up more $$.
Gotta throw $$ at old trucks every now and then

Terrys87

iTrader: (1)

If it did not rust from the top from mud sitting on it and putting holes into the tank, I consider it about a $60 job and that is with a fuel injected tank because I replace the fuel pumps while doing it. With your tank, you can clean it with white vinegar and then coat it with Red Kote. It takes a few days to let it soak and depends on how much vinegar you want to buy. I am a cheap scape so usually buy 5 gallons and rotate the tank. You could buy more and do it faster. I have it in any of my build threads below on how to clean the tanks. You should replace the screen in the tank while at it.

For what it is worth, if it is because your tank is rusty, which it does look like rust. I have cleaned these tanks out and there is no rust damage to them. The tank will be smooth and shiney when done right and looks new. I coat the tank as it is impossible to get the fine dust out. What I think it is, is a build up of chemicals or varnish or something similar because there is no damage to the tank. On the bottom of the tank, it will look like blood veins or the veins in a tree leave. On the side of the tank it is scaley rust.

AdmiralYoda

Hmmmm, good idea on the vinegar Terry. I wish I would have thought of that when I did my tank. One look and it was just too nasty so I just bought a new one. OEM is better so I wish I tried to salvage it.

Vinegar is cheaper than gasoline.....so it would cost less than a fuel fill up. You can buy 1.5-2 gallon bottles at BJ's, Costo's, Sam's Club or Walmart for cheap. I say fill her up and let her sit. Leave the fuel pump bracket and fuel level sending unit in there.

If you have a ton of time I'd say leave it for a week in the sun and flip it over and let it sit another week. I'll keep this one in mind just in case there is a next time...