Car Parts Discount
Gas Tank

Aftermarket & OEM Gas Tank

Gas tanks are used to store a large amount of fuel to keep the car going, and were originally large drum-shaped pieces on the outside of the car. They often rust out from sitting too long, or can become punctured from damage. In later years they moved underneath the car and usually towards the rear. Today they tend to be more towards the center of the car for safety and aesthetic reasons. If tanks become ruptured they can leak fuel, at best wasting a lot of money and at worst starting a fire. Rust in the tank can affect the gas and plug fuel lines and pumps, possibly meaning that you will need to replace your entire fuel system. A new gas tank is also a must for a restoration, and a shiny tank can complete the look on your custom car. A simple visual inspection of the tank can often determine if it is time for it to be replaced.

Most gas tanks are made out of steel and are often treated with zinc coating or painted to help inhibit rust. Aftermarket tanks are sometimes made of stainless steel or chrome plated for show. Gas tanks are usually not designed for looks however, and are meant to be an out of the way part of the car. Tanks are designed to maximize space in tight areas under the car and often have odd or irregular shapes as they bend and twist around the frame and other parts of the car. Most tanks have a baffle inside them to prevent too much sloshing around while driving. The inside of the tank includes a sending unit and pump that is used to send fuel to the engine, as well as monitor the amount of gas left in the tank.

As with anything involving gasoline, use extreme caution when replacing a gas tank. Since it is underneath the car, it may be best to get an experienced mechanic to do the work.
  • Jack the car or put it on a lift. Siphon the fuel out of the tank.
  • Disconnect all the hoses, lines and sensors that may be attached to the tank.
  • Use penetrating oil to loosen bolts or other parts.
  • Unhooked the straps and lower the tank.
  • Replace with the new tank and hook in the straps.
  • Reconnect hoses and lines, insert the new fuel sending unit.
  • Fill tank back up with gas.
Car Parts Discount has a wide variety of great gas tanks for your car or truck, and gas tanks are brand new. Give your old car a fresh start with a new tank with brand names like Dynacorn, Spectra Premium, and Dorman. Stop worrying about rusty fuel, leaks or fires with and check out our great selection and prices. We also carry of full supply of fuel system parts for your vehicle. When buying a new tank it is always a good idea to look at a new sending unit, straps, anti-squeak kit and maybe even a new pump and fuel lines. Check our website for the full offerings for your vehicle.