Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

I have a 1950 half ton and want to get the tank out of the cab. I like the side location of the 48 tank and would pick one up but I’m concerned it will be too close to the axle.
The explorer rear end has the axle off center about 2 inches to the passenger side where the 48!tank is located. I haven’t found any decent dimensions of the tank installed so can’t be sure of the clearance. I have seen pictures of a tank installed and it looks like it would clear but don’t want to buy a tank to find out it won’t fit.

Has anyone used a 48 tank and explorer axle that could help me out or does anyone have dimensions of how far the rear of the tank sits inboard from the frame rail?


Thanks!

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

From Ebay:

Size of this 16 gallon tank excluding flanges is Approx 23" x 13" x 12"

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1947-1948-1...MAAOSwux5YWs-C

If it doesn't fit you can always return it. Yeah, I know shipping is expensive...

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

I can take some measurements and photos tonight, I have no wood in my bed so you can see. The tank does get REAL close in mine which has a 55-57 Passenger car rearend.

Brian

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

Remembering when I had my stock tank in mine with a 61 Chevy car rear then a 68 Camaro rear there is not a lot of wiggle room. If you have duals they have to run down the left hand side of the driveshaft to clear.

Brian can give you exact measurements though and that should answer your questions.

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

Brian, I would really appreciate it. Would you mind grabbing a couple pictures Im real curious as to how far out the brackets hook up to the tank and if they push the tank out further.

Thanks,
Eric

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

Mr48, I am glad you brought up the exhaust. I hadnt thought that far ahead and would definitely want to consider the exhaust before buying an expensive tank.

Thanks, Eric

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

LOL the way I solved the exhaust issue wasn't pretty by today's standards but it cost 69 bucks in 1976 dollars when I put the 283 in it.

Those N 50 tires on 8-1/2 x 14 Crager Mach 8 wheels stuck out a bit too.

Re: Will a 1948 fuel tank fit with an explorer rear end?
 

Sorry I took so long to get these posted. The left rear corner of the tank that is near the 3rd member of the rear axle is 36 inches from the center crossmember And 14 and a half inches from the inner edge of the frame rail.

You can see from the rear photo that it's above the rear axle, but the springs aren't compressed much being there is no motor and all in the truck. It's got 3" lowered springs though.

If you need anything else let me know.

Brian