I set my sender to read empty with 2 gals. still in the tank...it goes forever on full but to me as long as the empty side is correct there will be no problems. (late model tank early sender)
According to Tanks Inc., Ford sending unit resistance ranges are the same up to 1986. The only difference may be the float position relative to resistance since not all tanks are the same dimensions. The gauges will read from any pre 1986 sender. It would actually make more sense to use the correct sender for whatever tank you are using. Or, just tweak it until you get what you want like Frank did. http://www.tanksinc.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=results/category_id=159/mode=cat/cat159.htm
There is no difference in the design of the top section on the tank, that would be the point of first contact, crushing a tank is the same regardless of the difference in the two tanks.
Paul that is what I was asking. Late model tank with late model sender and 72 model guage. Don't think most vehicles would go under my car in the rear unless they were really low to the ground.
There absolutely is a difference. All anyone has to do is look at it to see the difference. The original tank "can" certainly rupture, but would require one hell of a hard impact, versus a slight impact for the late-model tank that's up against the rear valance and hanging down below it. Unfortunately, I don't have the ability to post graphic illustrations here to show you.
You don't have to show me, I have a 73, and a 74. Both the 73, and the 74 use the same tank from the factory, which is the same tank used in 71 and 72. The valance alone will not rupture the tank, I'm sure more than one Maverick has been rear ended over the years. Don't worry Ralph Nader, we'll all be fine.
I guess what I am referring to is the piece of "framing" located between the gas tank and rear valence. While it looks like framing for the car...it is very flimsy. I would say as flimsy as the rear valence. I have seen mufflers fall off the exhaust pipe and flop around there beating the tar out of this piece of "framing". There is not enough there to protect in the event or a rear collision. The rear frame rails are made of the same material. Being a uni-body car, as a "structure" it all holds up....but I would not count on it for any protection in the event of a collision. Having said all that, I would say both styles of gas tanks have an equal chance of exploding upon impact. Just part of driving an old car. I would take the 1971-1974 tank over the 1970 tank that is for sure.
I never said the valance would rupture the tank. I said the impact from the vehicle that hits it will rupture the tank, as there is nothing between the tank and the offending vehicle but the valance. You can argue if you want, but don't twist my words.
Craig, it's hardly "equal". Yes, the frame structure is not very strong, but it's still stronger than a valance. Simply look at '71-'73 Mavericks in junkyards (I know you've seen hundreds of them) that have been rear-ended, and look at the condition of the fuel tank. It's not the first thing to be struck, as absolutely will be with the late-model tank without the huge bumper behind it. This is just a fact. Not my opinion. My comments were just F.Y.I. strictly from a safety standpoint. This doesn't even address how it "looks", which would be a waste of time since there are differences in taste. People can twist what I say, or bring up a non-sequitur such as anti-lock brakes and all sorts of other things that have nothing to do with fuel tanks/fire safety, as well as smart-ass "Ralph Nader" comments, or asking for "statistics" (Really?? Considering how few Maverick owners since 1970 have ever swapped in the late-model tank, it's not likely you'd find any statistics anywhere), but I know that what I have stated is true and good advice. And hey guys, I'm not trying to stop anyone from doing whatever they want to their cars. You can take the advice or leave it. 'Makes no difference to Me.
I agree it is somewhat stronger due to the shape....but anything about 10 mph I would say they would both bend beyond safety. Kind of explains why the government mandated the bigger bumpers.
Don't twist your words, that's what you always say....give it a rest. So in reality, if you get rearended by anything, the tank will rupture, that's pretty much a given, that's why they don't build cars like this anymore...
Since my car is only driven with in 50 miles of my home a few times a year. This car is not a dailey driver, show car only. since the don't make early tanks my only option is a larger tank. My tank has a small leak appears to be leaking at the seam. Probably can not be repaired. I understand the safety implications. If it were a dailey driver I might consider buying a used tank with holes in it, pay shipping, have it cleaned out and sealed but probably not. Since most people don't even know what a Comet is I doubt they would even notice the tank. I didn't mean to start such a conversation. I only wanted to know if the 72 guage would work with the later sender.
