Hey everyone, I am new here yet been checking the site long before I bought my 1983 Z28 two years ago. I searched for weeks for some of my problems, yet only been able to get the answers for a few. My car has a ton of issues despite its appearance. Any way I will be asking tons of questions in near future, and yes I know how to use Search and I own the 83 GM manual for my car. I have limited knowledge on GM cars, as I came from Ford vehicles and really only know basic stuff.
So, first up and the reason for post. Main problem is I need a fuel tank, the one I pulled is a replacement by the previous owner, Spectra tank. I have already found out from others posts that they are of, "questionable quality" , its full of rust and the filler is bent. I have been thinking about these used gas tanks from Hawks, has anyone bought one? I searched that as well and couldn't find an answer.
I need something to get her going again, so then I can dig into the other issues. Thanks

 

The new spectra tanks are fine. I don't trust used tanks since they are so hard to properly clean.

 

I've just read way too much about Spectra tanks being a poor fit, and misaligned filler necks. Both issues are present on the one I pulled, I really don't want to hassle with all that again. It seems most people rather have the original tank cleaned and treated with por15. I'd rather have an original tank.

 

You could buy the aeromotive tank, which is a spectra tank. The filler neck is kinda a pain but very doable. Many, including myself, have gone this route. You could also, cut the neck off and use a 4th gen neck which has a hose section for flexibility.

 

I've read threads here where guys have fitted 4th gen tanks into our 3rd gen cars, I don't recall reading that it was all that difficult, and you end up with a tank that'll never rust (cause it's plastic)....

 

4th gen tank is the way to go the filler neck comes off so you don't have to drop the rear to get it in and out.

 

I've read a bit on the 4th gen tank swap. The sending unit part and getting it to work with a mechanical pump, carburetor and have a working gas gauge are my concern. I have limited abilities when it comes to re-engineering stuff, I am a more keep it as original as possible kinda person to reduce headaches.

 

Contact Hawks and ask for some pictures of the inside of the used tank they would send you. No guarantee someone's previous experience with used parts will match what you're going to get.

 

I guess I will have to contact them. They mention all tanks are cleaned and serviced to ensure they are usable. Was hoping a member here bought one and could just give me their thoughts. As much stuff as I have fix on my car, I just want as much hassle free work as possible.

 

I installed a Spectra tank. It fit just fine.

 

I've read lots of older posts from members who had nothing but problems with the Spectra tanks. Hmm, maybe they improved quality over the years, IDK..

The spectra I pulled out of my Z28 had a very tight fit and the filler was angled downward pretty hard to where the pump nozzle would fall out on its own. Also previous owner hacked up the underbody for the filler neck to clear, which is a darn shame. I had to pry on the filler neck while a friend underneath yanked it out. I really don't want to go through that debacle again. However at this point I might as well jam it back in, I have a laundry list of issues still to fix.

 

Do it, Hawks is a great company and has good support, call them.

 

Well, I called Hawks, asked about what they do to the used tanks. They inspect, clean and make sure the tank is not rusted out bad and are tested for leaks. Thats it. So...

I bit the bullet and purchased one, and I will post about it when it shows up. I also went ahead and bought a new tank vent valve. Hoping for the best, because I miss driving my car and for the 2 years I have had it, it has sat in my driveway for most of it due to constant problems.