Is the1992 Ranger Fuel Tank Guard Shield Needed?

[Resident_Ranger]

The shield that attaches to the fuel tank guard on my truck has seen better days. How needed is the shield? Has anyone been running without one? Whats your experience? Should I go about trying to restore or make a new one. Or should I just bolt the guard on without it and forget it?

 

[superj]

does it just keep the tank from sliding over?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

First gens don't have one but our tanks are thinner and not as close to the driveshaft.

 

[Resident_Ranger]

does it just keep the tank from sliding over?

No, the tank itself is mounted to the frame with straps. The guard is mounted to the frame and not in contact with the tank at all. The shield is mounted to the guard.

 

[19Walt93]

It keeps exhaust heat away from the tank, I'd keep it unless you build a shield around the exhaust.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

The exhaust runs on the passenger side. The tank is on the right. Personally never noticed that shield, but all my rangers are 93 or earlier, and I haven't been under the 93. I would have no problem running without.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

The exhaust runs on the passenger side. The tank is on the right. Personally never noticed that shield, but all my rangers are 93 or earlier, and I haven't been under the 93. I would have no problem running without.

It looks more like a heat shield than a driveshaft shield.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I'll poke my head under the 93 in a bit.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I'll poke my head under the 93 in a bit.

It should have one, I noticed them under 98+ trucks when I was trying to find a driveshaft for mine.

It may be because of the plastic fuel tanks too.

 

[sgtsandman]

I think it acts more as a sacrificial item to take the damage the tank might otherwise take. They aren't very substantial and the exhaust isn't close enough to be the reason it is there. So, I think it is there more to protect the tank from road debris than anything else.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I think it acts more as a sacrificial item to take the damage the tank might otherwise take. They aren't very substantial and the exhaust isn't close enough to be the reason it is there. So, I think it is there more to protect the tank from road debris than anything else.

Just on the inboard side of the tank though...

Thinking more about it I wonder if it is so the fuel tank doesn't rupture towards the exhaust in the event of an accident. May also try to fend off the driveshaft in the event of an accident.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Took a look at my 93. Its there.