10/05/2001
- Understanding Your Classic Car's Fuel Tank: Who Makes Them and What Types Are Available?
- Tanks Inc.: A Specialist in Classic Fuel Systems
- Classic Performance Products (CPP): Solutions for Every Classic
- Classic Industries: Practical Solutions for Specific Applications
- Holley & Sniper: Integrated EFI Fuel Tank Kits
- Choosing the Right Fuel Tank for Your Project
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Understanding Your Classic Car's Fuel Tank: Who Makes Them and What Types Are Available?
When embarking on a restoration or modification of a classic car, street rod, or muscle car, one of the most crucial components to consider is the fuel tank. Not only does it safely store the lifeblood of your vehicle, but the right fuel tank can also be integral to a modern fuel injection conversion. So, who are the key players in this market, and what types of fuel tanks can you expect to find?
For enthusiasts of classic vehicles, the quest for the perfect fuel tank often leads to specialised manufacturers who understand the unique needs of these beloved machines. Among the most prominent names is Tanks Inc., a company that has dedicated over 30 years to designing and manufacturing a vast array of gas tanks and fuel accessories specifically for the street rod, muscle car, and classic vehicle market. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a go-to source for many restoration and customisation projects.
Tanks Inc.: A Specialist in Classic Fuel Systems
Tanks Inc. offers a diverse selection of fuel tanks crafted from a variety of materials to suit different needs and preferences. These materials include:
- Polyethylene: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, offering a modern alternative to traditional metal tanks.
- Stainless Steel: Highly durable and resistant to corrosion, ideal for long-term reliability and a premium finish.
- Mild Steel: A common and cost-effective material, often coated for protection against the elements.
- Alloy-Coated Steel: Provides a good balance of strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
Beyond just the tanks themselves, Tanks Inc. also provides essential fuel system components, making them a comprehensive solution for your project. This includes parts for fuel injection conversions, fuel pumps, fuel rail fitting adapters, fuel filter pressure regulators, fuel tank sending units, fuel filters, remote rollover vent valves, tank filler neck hoses, and a great deal more. Their expertise extends to helping you build the ultimate fuel system, whether you're sticking with a carburettor setup or making the leap to EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection).
For those looking to upgrade to fuel injection, Tanks Inc. specialises in converting classic vehicles. If you're ready to make the jump to EFI for your hot rod or pro-touring car, they likely have a solution that will integrate seamlessly with your vehicle. Their offerings aren't limited to tanks and pumps; they also provide fuel senders and various tank accessories to help you complete your project with precision and style.
Classic Performance Products (CPP): Solutions for Every Classic
Another significant manufacturer in the classic automotive aftermarket is Classic Performance Products (CPP). CPP also offers a comprehensive selection of fuel tanks designed for classic cars and trucks. Their range is extensive and caters to a wide spectrum of restoration and modification requirements. CPP's offerings include:
- OEM Style Stamped Steel Carbureted Gas Tanks: Designed to replicate the original fit and function for carburetted vehicles.
- Galvanized Steel Tanks: Providing enhanced corrosion resistance compared to standard steel.
- Steel Zinc Coated Tanks: Offering a protective layer against rust and environmental damage.
- Fuel Injection Ready Aluminum Fuel Tanks: Lightweight and durable, these tanks are specifically designed to accommodate the higher pressures and specific requirements of modern EFI systems.
Whether your project is a custom LS swap, a period-correct restoration, or anything in between, CPP aims to provide the fuel tank solutions you need for a multitude of makes and models. Their focus is on delivering quality components that meet the demands of both classic aesthetics and modern performance.
Classic Industries: Practical Solutions for Specific Applications
Classic Industries is a well-known supplier of parts for classic American vehicles, and they also offer fuel tank-related products. While they might not manufacture every tank themselves, they curate and supply a range of solutions, including practical kits. For instance, they offer a 20-gallon Fuel Tank Relocate Kit for 1967-72 Chevrolet and GMC trucks, designed for side-fill applications. This type of kit is invaluable for relocating the fuel tank from inside the cab to underneath the truck on the frame rail. Such a relocation not only helps to eliminate potentially harmful gas fumes from the cabin but also frees up valuable interior storage space, a common benefit for truck owners.
Holley & Sniper: Integrated EFI Fuel Tank Kits
For those undertaking an EFI conversion, companies like Holley and its Sniper brand offer integrated solutions. They understand that a successful EFI swap requires more than just a new fuel pump; it often necessitates a fuel tank designed to work with the EFI system's demands. Holley and Sniper provide EFI Conversion Fuel Tanks that are engineered as direct, bolt-in replacements, meaning no major modifications are typically necessary for installation.
A typical Holley/Sniper EFI conversion fuel tank kit often includes:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Fuel Tank | Coated galvanized steel, then powder coated silver for total corrosion protection. Designed to fit and look like an OE tank when installed. |
| Fuel Pump | A 255 LPH (Liters Per Hour) fuel pump with a hanger assembly, providing ample fuel delivery for EFI systems with in-tank quietness. |
| Internal Baffling | Features a large 4.3-liter internal fuel tray to prevent fuel pump starvation, ensuring consistent fuel delivery even under hard cornering or acceleration. |
| Fuel Level Sender | Included with the correct Ohm range to ensure compatibility with your factory gauges. It also features 1/4” NPT supply and return line ports for easy fuel line connection and a barbed vent fitting. |
| Tank Straps | New tank straps are typically included to ensure a secure and correct installation. |
These kits are designed to be a complete bolt-in solution, simplifying the often complex process of converting a classic vehicle to electronic fuel injection. The inclusion of features like internal baffling and appropriate sending units demonstrates a comprehensive approach to meeting the specific needs of EFI conversions.
Choosing the Right Fuel Tank for Your Project
When selecting a fuel tank, consider the following:
- Vehicle Type: Is it a street rod, muscle car, classic truck, or a specific make/model with unique requirements?
- Fuel System: Are you running a carburettor or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)? EFI systems require higher fuel pressure and often benefit from baffled tanks to prevent fuel starvation.
- Material Preference: Consider the pros and cons of polyethylene, stainless steel, mild steel, and coated steel in terms of weight, durability, corrosion resistance, and cost.
- Installation: Look for tanks designed for direct fitment or consider relocation kits if the original location is problematic.
- Completeness: Does the tank come with necessary accessories like sending units, baffles, or fuel pumps, or will these need to be purchased separately?
Manufacturers like Tanks Inc., CPP, Classic Industries, and Holley provide a range of options to meet the diverse needs of classic car owners. Whether you need a simple replacement, a modern material upgrade, or a complete EFI conversion kit, there are specialised products available to ensure your classic vehicle runs safely and reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best material for a classic car fuel tank?
The best material depends on your priorities. Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Polyethylene is lightweight and won't corrode. Mild steel is a cost-effective option, especially when coated for protection. For EFI conversions, tanks designed with specific baffling and materials suitable for higher pressures are recommended.
Q2: Do I need a special fuel tank for fuel injection?
Yes, it is highly recommended. EFI systems operate at higher fuel pressures than carburetted systems. EFI-ready tanks often include internal baffling or a fuel surge tank to keep the fuel pump submerged and prevent fuel starvation. They also typically come with integrated fuel pumps and sending units designed for EFI.
Q3: Can I relocate my fuel tank?
Yes, relocating a fuel tank is a common modification, especially for trucks where the original tank was located inside the cab. Relocation kits, like those offered by Classic Industries, move the tank underneath the vehicle, improving cabin safety and space. Ensure any relocation complies with local regulations.
Q4: What is included in a typical EFI fuel tank kit?
A complete EFI fuel tank kit usually includes the fuel tank itself (often with enhanced baffling), an in-tank fuel pump (typically 255 LPH), a fuel level sender compatible with factory gauges, and new mounting hardware or straps. Some kits may also include pre-installed fittings for fuel lines.
Q5: Where can I find fuel tanks for my specific classic car model?
Specialist manufacturers and suppliers like Tanks Inc., CPP, and Classic Industries are excellent resources. Many also have online catalogues where you can search by vehicle make, model, and year to find compatible fuel tanks and accessories.
If you want to read more articles similar to Fuel Tank Manufacturers & Types, you can visit the Automotive category.