I owned my first Maverick in the 80s and finally bought another this past weekend. Times have changed! I used to go to Pick a Part and have 5 or 10 Mavericks to pull from. Parts were a dime a dozen. I bought the three pieces for the rear spoiler for about $15! The engine mount brackets to switch a 6 to a V8 cost me $5! Now the prices are higher than a Mustang! A Mustang gas tank is $200 and a Maverick gas tank is $400! I have big plans for my 1970 Maverick down the road but first things first. My first goal is to get the 6-cylinder mechanically sound. Here are my questions. What is the best repair/manual book for a 1970 Maverick? I did see one for V8s but I still have a 6. I do need a gas tank. Is there a go-to supplier or do most people just search the web? I plan to replace the entire brake system from the Master cylinder to the wheel cylinders. Where should I buy the parts? Finally, for now, my tires are 20 years old would love to get rims and tires together any suggestions on sizes? I do have more questions but this will get me started. I do appreciate any help everyone can give me! Charlie
If I were doing complete brake restore, I would convert to front disk w/ Granada conversion or aftermarket setup. If using car for any highway driving, you’ll appreciate the improvement & have 5 lug wheels for greater “15in” tire/wheel choices. I’m thinking 70’s tank is part of trunk floor , don’t know if replacements are available, do a search. Lots of information here on later model direct replacement units.
Melvin's Classic Ford Parts in Georgia is where I get most parts for my Maverick and Falcons. https://www.melvinsclassicfordparts.com/
On this site, click on Garage, and the Wheels and Tires. There are examples of rim and tire sizes. If you want a classic look make sure you look at the Crager site. Also search “Rims” for info in sizes and offsets. A lot of people go to 15 inch rims, and a lot use slightly smaller tires in the front than the back. One of the most common rear tires is 275/60/R15. The more modern fans even put 17 and 18 inch rims on. One no-brainer combo is 205/60/R15 on a 7 x15 rim for the front and 275/60/R15 on a 8 x 15 rim for the back. If you don’t want to go that wide and want 4 tires the same size, I recommend an x/60/15 on a 7 x15 rim. You can look at members’ garages by clicking on their name and then their “garage” if they have one. Then you can look at their tire choices.
I believe the 70 tank is now available aftermarket. I could not agree more with Everett, if you are going to do the entire brake system at least go manual discs. If you are going to someday go to V8 then you will probably want to convert to 5 lug. If you were closer to Tx I have a complete 8 inch 5 lug, and of course if you are going to 5 lug you may want to hold off on pricey wheels at the moment. There is a tech article about using a Mustang tank if you are handy.
Early Mustang tanks were part of the trunk floor too. I doubt they are the same size as a 70 mav tank, but it is at least worth a look. If the same size, you will probably get a bargain price because Mustang parts are commonly reproduced. I would agree with the change to front disc brakes and five lug wheels. If sharing the road with modern cars, you don't stand a chance with four wheel drum brakes. If you insist on sticking with four lugs, be careful, there are two different Ford four lug patterns. IIRC the bolt circles are 1/4 " different.