1987 twin saddle tanks

[Cheekster96]

Hey fellows, i had posted this over on the Classic Truck section and didnt get any bites. Hope it is ok i post it here....

 

Howdy gang. Well, i think the Maine winters are slowly starting to catch up to my 87 K20. My passenger gas tank is leaking fuel. Have a nice black stain in the asphalt out in the parking lot. Filled up that tank last week (driving on the drivers tank), noticed the puddle this morning, looked at the gauge and was down to an 1/8th.

 

I have seen prices for the 20 gallon (steel tank...will rust again eventually) anywhere between $90-140 from internet sites (spectra premium is a good place) to local parts stores. Auto zone wants $140. All of these tanks come with a new lock ring and o ring.

 

What about the polyurathane tanks? Same dimensions. Same 20 gallons. Never will rust. Wont accumulate condensation. They are slightly more expensive but seem to be worth it.

 

Any pros and cons or suggestions?

 

Also. The sending unit. Not sure if i need a new one (pricey, well over $200). The gauge works fine, the diverter valve (to switch tanks) works fine and the fuel pump runs fine. How do i determine if i need a new one or not?

 

Definately getting two new straps to go with the purchase.

 

Just wanted to see what you all had to say.

 

Truck is an 87 K20 with the 350 TBI, 4x4 and 4.10s with the TH400

 

Thanks.

Lee

[Larry]

I would just replace the rusty tanks with polyurethane tanks and call it good. At the very minimum you may want to change the fuel pumps since you’ll have the tanks down. I see no reason to change the entire sending units.

 

The polyurethane tanks work well in areas like yours where road salt is used. Chrysler has been using polyurethane tanks for years with great success.

[mmmikkke]

Do you really think you're going to keep your truck more than another 18 years? Otherwise I'd just install as close to original as possible. Steel tanks.