Looking for a 80" fuel tank

[McBrain283]

Hi all,

my reno is going well, just got the engine block at the machinists, then will be looking at re-assembly.

I was about to re-install the fuel tank that I had cleaned-up and painted and check for leaks, only to find that it does actually leak!

I'm looking at repairing it but it's a big job.

Anyone know of an 80" fuel tank available for sale in reasonable condition?

[B.S.F.]

They usually start leaking the moment you remove them from the vehicle. As far as I know, new off the shelf Series 1 petrol tanks are only available from overseas. For years I was using a 20L drum before I finally made my own tank, without side pressings, but of thicker metal. (With some professional help) The advantage of a Series 1 tank is that you can put your arm inside..W.

[gromit]

Rather than repairing can you line the tank ?
Red-Kote Dry Fuel Tank Liner : Treats 50L Tank (https://www.plumkrazygarage.com.au/products/red-kote-dry-fuel-tank-liner-treats-50l-tank'srsltid=AfmBOooaVIrZSifA75WgomOD7HCbKggGrGxN7 _Y_-n5MOdsbQMrVKTfa)

There was a discussion on here about using plastic pipe joining compound as an alternative.
The Red Kote is supplied as granules and you add acetone. In theory you could remove it in future by dissolving with acetone.

Petrol tank repairs (https://www.aulro.com/afvb/technical-chatter/296871-petrol-tank-repairs.html)


Tanks are available from the UK
218020 - Fuel Tank 80 Inch 1948-53 (https://www.johncraddockltd.co.uk/218020-fuel-tank-80-inch-1948-53.html)

Freight would add a fair bit to the cost.

There were people making them here but you needed the filler neck from your old tank, this was let into the new tank.


Colin

[McBrain283]

Thanks both.

the tank is currently with the guy who did my radiator. He is old-school and will do a good job but waiting to see the cost estimate. He would basically need to peel the bottom skin, keeping the top and sides and fit a new lower skin.

If it is too expensive I may try the sealer gromit recommends.

I assume there are rules about having non-standard fuel tanks retro-fitted? Could almost have a plastic tank there and keep the pressed side of the old tank for looks...

[gromit]

I assume there are rules about having non-standard fuel tanks retro-fitted? Could almost have a plastic tank there and keep the pressed side of the old tank for looks...

Rules on something that old ?
Having to fill from inside the vehicle isn't allowed now and having the tank under the seat probably isn't allowed either.
As long as the cap seals and fuel doesn't splash out you're probably OK, only the rivet counters would pick up any changes.


Colin

[B.S.F.]

Some people cut out the sides of the old tank with the pressings and glue them to the plain sides of a new one. In the Land Rover restoration business a lot of things aren't what they appear to be.
I've never done a so called restoration or built a replica ornament. I've always preferred "honest", reliable Land Rovers.
.W.

[McBrain283]

Yesterday I toyed with the idea of using a plastic boat tank and just removing the bottom of the old tank and sliding over the top, giving an original look.

But I've put so much time and $ into this build, I think I'd rather pay and do it properly.

[B.S.F.]

If I'd get a tank from overseas I'd try to get it from a company that sells other Land Rover parts as well and fill the tank with them. Like paper gaskets,
felt seals, windscreen and door sealing rubbers. rubber brake parts etc, anything that's light and fits through the filler opening.
There is just no cheap way of restoring a S1.
.W.

[QRS40]

I have a nice original and non leaking 80” fuel tank for sale, but is a ‘package deal’ with the vehicle it is attached to [wink11]

Probably still cheaper than freight from the UK?!

[gromit]

Alloy tank from AliSport

AS168 - Land Rover Series 1 80” fuel tank - AlliSport (https://www.allisport.com/shop/performance-products/tanks-and-reservoirs/fuel-tanks/land-rover-series-1-80-fuel-tank/)

780GBP with a guard so $1,600 plus freight !

Colin

[BradC]

I had a custom water tank welded up for our old caravan. I know HDPE can be fuel safe. Could you have a tank welded up that you just drop the old shell over? Similar idea to the plastic boat tank, but this way you get one that properly fits.

[VladTepes]

An 80" fuel tank? That's a really BIG fuel tank! Will it fit?

:D

Sorry, I'll see myself out.

[whitehillbilly64]

80 inch Fuel tank on Facebook marketplace.
(1) Marketplace - Land Rover fuel tank | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/822932186948412/?ref=search&referral_code=null&referral_story_type=post&tracking=browse_serp%3A84d1fde6-da2d-4ebd-9aa6-f5a745f6e3c2)
Not sure how good it is.

whitehillbilly

[McBrain283]

Thanks all for the tips.

the guy who did my radiator for me is rebuilding the tank. Just bumped into him and he says it will be done Friday.

The plan was to keep the top and sides and fabricate a new wrap-around base/front/back sides.

He is a real craftsman and did a great job on the radiator (see below) so we'll see.

Not sure what the price is yet!!

194883194884194885194886194887194888