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  1. #1

    Default Fuel tank original color

    Hi all,

    I'm getting a new fuel tank for my 85 GT. What was the original color when new? I'm not sure if I should leave it silver, paint it black or use undercoating. Going for that original look. Any pics or info shared is appreciated.

    Thanks!

  2. #2

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    I would be natural metal. Here is what my 78 looks like. I am sure the 85 would be the same.

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  3. #3
    FEP Power Member
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    Much of the fuel tank is covered by the black plastic cover. It got bigger over the years.
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  4. #4

    Default

    Thanks for the replies guys!

    I have the black plastic cover that covers the center part of the tank. I need to clean it up and get off the over spray and undercoating. I have new straps coming too. Do those stay natural as well? Thanks all!

  5. #5

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    Alright, so I received all the parts today. Tank is silver and straps are black. I've been looking at images of original 85/86 GTs for the last couple of days and most look like they have been undercoated. I'm thinking about doing the same.

  6. #6
    Moderator wraithracing's Avatar
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    The 85/86 cars would have the full plastic tank cover not just the center section like the early 4 eyes. All the tanks I have removed over the years are natural galvanized steel finish with no paint or primer.

    I have seen straps that are both black and natural. I can't not say what would be concourse correct as I am not sure if all of them were painted originally and some just had the paint flake off over time or if they actually left the factory as natural finish.
    ​Trey

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  7. #7

    Default

    I have an 85, original tank, cover, and straps. I can't say what the actual tank is because I have never had the cover off. But the cover and straps are black, with no undercoat.
    1985 GT owned since new

  8. #8

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    Just looked at the cover. It’s got an E2 part number, so it must have gotten switched out at some point. Thanks for the replies!
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  9. #9
    Moderator wraithracing's Avatar
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    From my experience that is definitely the early 4 Eye fuel tank cover. I would have to look at one of my full covers to check the part number. I thought it started in 1983 or 84, but I am not 100% on that.

    I have several take off full plastic covers if you need/want to replace yours. Send me a PM if interested. Good Luck!
    ​Trey

    "I Don't build it hoping for your approval! I built it because it meets mine!"

    "I've spent most of my money on Mustangs, racing, and women... the rest I just wasted."

    Mustangs Past: Too many to remember!
    Current Mustangs:
    1969 Mach 1
    1979 Pace Car now 5.0/5 speed
    1982 GT Stalled RestoModification
    1984 SVO Still Waiting Restoration
    1986 GT Under going Wide Body Conversion Currently

    Current Capris:
    1981 Capri Roller
    1981 Capri Black Magic Roller Basket Case
    1982 Capri RS 5.0/4spd T-top Full Restoration Stalled in TX
    1984 Capri RS T-top Roller
    1983-84 Gloy Racing Trans Am/IMSA Body Parts

  10. #10
    FEP Super Member gr79's Avatar
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    8/2018 replaced the fuel tank, hardware, and straps on my 79 Cobra. Added new rubber cushioning between tank and straps.
    Tank was black, straps black. Car was dealer 'rust-proofed' with Ford SuperSeal (Ziebart) when new.
    Thus the black tank and straps were due to rust proofing. Tank was silver under the straps. Straps oe color unknown.
    New NPD tank is silver with NPD black straps, which appear to be powder coated.
    Still looks like new back there.

    The only areas that rusted out were ps strap (failed) and a hole (leak) in the tank under it. Undetermined how hole developed.
    When strap failed, pinhole leak became serious quickly.

    Noted the new tank has very minor surface rust all the way around on the tank seam robot weld.
    Keeping an eye on that. Will treat if rust progresses.
    Has the early short white tank shield at front facing the rear axle held on by the straps.

    I remember calling Ford early 80's about the tanks. On way to work, the tank on a new Mustang was silver.
    Commented to them the fuel tank stuck out visually and they may look better blacked out.
    Not too long after, they were black, prob when the large black shield was added. Guess 83-84.

    Keeping mine silver with black straps. Gives the car a new look again seen from the rear.
    A change of my perspective years later.
    No reason to paint tank as of yet. Car will not be driven on salty winter roads like in the past.
    Opaque coatings may eventually hide rust. Clear coat may be an option after the film of manufacturing oil is gone.

  11. #11
    FEP Super Member 79mustangcobra's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by RED 78' View Post
    I would be natural metal. Here is what my 78 looks like. I am sure the 85 would be the same.

    More views here.
    http://myzephyrs.com/gas_tank_stamp.htm
    Thank you so much! This is really nice!
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