Hi, I did a body off restoration on my 70 vista cruiser back in 09-14. I put the tank on the body before setting back on the frame when I did the car and now have to take the tank out to get the fuel sender repaired. My question is will the tank slide out out easy or is it a tight fit. Everything is painted and don't want to scratch it up. I will tape everything off good just wondering if it slides out easy. Thanks Steve

 

I removed one about 15 or so years ago and don't remember having much trouble. I was not worried about scratching anything but from what little memory I have of it I didn't think it was that bad.

 

Get most of the gas out and measure how much clearance you need under the back to let the tank drop straight down and clear of the body. That way you won't worry about anything being scratched.

The rubber fuel supply, return, and vent lines (if you have a California model with NA9) are long enough to allow the tank to drop to the point where you can remove them.

 

I am sure you know this, but you have to lower the driver side of the rear end by disconnecting the shock to get additional clearance
.

 

Thanks guys, Hopefully I can slip this out without damaging the paint. Just have to make sure I have it high enough and bring the axle down on that side. Steve

 

I’m certain that you can drop the tank without any damage to the exterior paint. As Ali has mentioned, you’ll need to remove the lower shock mount and perhaps the exhaust hanger to allow the tank to move forward and down. A minor pain in the butt, but can certainly be done without incurring peripheral damage if you are patient.

 

Thanks for the reply, I am worried about the paint on the frame and inside where the tank sits Steve