Gas tank removal 85 ranger

[Mechanickid]

Ok this is my project truck. I'm having trouble with the gas tank, its an 85 ranger std. cab long bed, 4x4, 2.3, 5 speed. How do I go about removing the tank? I'm guessing some one put a pump in it sometime in its hard life, cuz its over 25 years old. It leaks and I plan on putting one in off my parts truck. Will my tank off the parts truck work? Its from an 86 ex cab 4x4 2.9 auto.

 

[the Mad Modder]

I'll try to get you the exact procedure Monday. The shop I work at has Alldata.

 

[fixizin]

The prevailing wisdom on this board, from many, many sources, is to save yourself a lot of headaches and... REMOVE THE WHOLE BED.

Easier than it sounds--6 bolts, one wiring plug, and the hose clamp for the fuel filler neck. Then everything fuel (and suspension) related is "right there". NEW bolts and nuts are a good idea.

(Also easy to remedy any rust issues under there while bed is off.)

Here's a recent thread on the bolts and T55 Torx bit issues:

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30191

 

[the Mad Modder]

Alldata says
"Drain fuel from fuel tank. Remove skid plate, if so equipped.
Remove two bolts from fuel tank support and straps.
Loosen screw clamp from fill pipe.
Lower fuel tank.
Remove sender unit, vapor valve tubes and push connectors. Installation
Raise fuel tank and attach sender unit, vapor valve tubes, and push connectors.
Install fuel filler pipe on tank and tighten clamp to specifications.
Attach two bolts to fuel tank support and straps and tighten.
Install skid plate and tighten mounting bolts and nuts to specification, if so equipped."

 

[Rammunition360]

buy new straps cut the old ones, unbolt the filler neck from the bed lower tank on a jack unplug everything switch it out and do everything reverse again, i dont suggest takin the bed off unless you have to, i had to have a cutting torch for my bolts