Fuel tank questions

[Holden Guy]

Hi. New to this forum. I have a 1986 4Runner (petrol). Owned since new and given it's age, things are starting to need replacing. It has done approx 140000km but haven't driven it for a while. The vehicle is in excellent condition. I have found that the fuel tank has rusted beyond repair but, given it's age, Toyota no longer stocks tanks. USA has heaps available but freight costs are prohibitive. Good used tanks are as rare as the proverbial and the aftermarket companies don't want to know about it. Without a tank, I basically have a garden ornament. My final thought is to get a custom made tank but here in Central Qld, that isn't a viable option. Does anyone on this forum know what options I may have to find a replacement tank? Any help is greatly appreciated. 

[Tony Prodigy]

I know overseas shipping can be horrendously expensive, especially now during the disruptive nature of Covid. How much have you seen for shipping from the U.S. 

It seems the U.S is the worst place for shipping. Something as small as a cassette tape can cost like U.S.$25 to ship. Yeah right. They can get stuffed if they think i'm paying that much for something so small and insignificant. 

If I find out something regarding a fuel tank I'll post back mate. Hang in there. I'm sure someone out there must have one. I'm not a facebook guy either, but I have heard their marketplace can be of help. You can even try hitting up the Hilux clubs and see if members there can help out.

If you have a young fetus around who knows their way around facebook, have them search it up for you. I don't have the patience for facebook. I can't stand it to be honest.

All the best mate 

[Holden Guy]

Many thanks for your reply. Pre covid I have bought parts back from US as checked baggage whilst on holidays there. Travellers are allowed 2 bags at 30kg each so my wife and I have brought back 120kg between us.  That's a lot of parts and Ryobi 1 tools. 😷 I have tried market place without success to date. I have found a diesel tank but not sure if this will work even with a good clean. Haven't given up hope yet.

[Tony Prodigy]

Nice to be able to bring parts in via checked luggage. Absolutely in my book. The savings in shipping is monumental !

The diesel tank idea may be a good idea actually. If you put them both side by side, study them carefully for inlet and breather tube sizes etc. You can always wash the tank out no problem. Empty it out and flush with unleaded. If you do end up getting one post up some comparison pics if you can. I'd love to see the differences if any.

Cheers mate 

[CONROD]

Have a squizz 

4x4 (coast4x4wreckers.com.au)

[Tony Prodigy]

Failing all that, you can have a custom fuel tank made. It's nothing special and there would be plenty of fabricators around who make one without breaking a sweat.

[Holden Guy]

Finally managed to buy a s/h diesel tank from regional Victoria out of a 1988 diesel 4Runner. Perfect fit. Cleaned thoroughly, replaced fuel lines, installed a new battery, fired up immediately after sitting for 4 years. Happy days. Replaced all fluids, new radiator (sold a kidney to buy that item). Upgraded all brake components, steering linkages, control arms. Runs beautifully again. Next on the list...new suspension. 

[Tony Prodigy]

8 hours ago, Holden Guy said:

sold a kidney to buy that item

Good to hear you found what you were looking for. I know the frustration you're dealing with when searching out old and sometimes non existent parts.

I've been hunting parts for a Ford XD I've had since the very early 90's because during the course of it's long term hibernation, being a rolling shell, a few parts have "disappeared" over the years and having to buy them today at today's extortionate prices leaves me somewhat bewildered to be honest. I just have to grin and bear it until I can stock up on all the bits I need, then I'm out.