larger fuel tank, now filler neck to short

[Peterfrans]

Some time ago I came across a later type fuel tank. This seemed like a nice upgrade as it was in better shape than my original tank and it also gives some more range. Fitting the tank was no problem, but now I have difficulties getting the filler neck to line up properly. I seems that the filler on the tank sits a few inches lower than the old one. I also tried the filler from a 84 carrera but this is also to short. Is the solution finding a mid year filler neck?

[Grady Clay]

Peter,

There are a couple of issues here.

First, the ’73 and earlier cars have the wiring harness below the filler where the ’74 and later have much up on the side of the inner fender. This allows the later filler neck to set lower.

The second is that there is a corresponding change in the filler neck starting in ’74 from 901.201.015.20 to 911.201.049.02. (There are some more part numbers between ’74 and ’89 [-03, -04, -05, -07] but I think the basic filler necks are the same, the changes were breather and vent fittings.)

The best solution is to use the ’74-> filler and carefully reposition the wiring to alongside the filler neck. I have used the earlier filler neck but the wiring still must move. Using the early filler neck leaves the rubber hose with a slight bend. If you do this, add a second pair of OE clamps. Some have had the neck of the tank repositioned but I don’t like that solution.

Are you moving your fuel pump to the front at the same time? (hint)

This will give you the excuse to clean and do some rust prevention where the filler neck enters the trunk and at the fender.

Best,
Grady

BTW, A few weeks ago I usurped your signature line and modified it slightly: “If you don't have time (or money) to do it right, how do you find time (or money) to do it over?” Great line.
G.

[Peterfrans]

Thanks Grady,

In the mean time I obtained a stainless 85 type filler pipe, but this does not seem to fit much better, maybe also because there is a bracket welded to the top of the filler pipe. I am going to clean up the wiring as this indeed seems to interfere with the pipe and see what happens then.

I still have the fuel pump in the back, but it is going to move to the front crossmember. Thanks for the hint

[GeorgeK]

Peter,
There is an *awful* lot of play in the filler tube from the cap through the inner fender. It takes muscle and repositioning of the wiring, but you should be able to fit your current setup. I did that a few times, and it is surprising how much the uper filler tube moves, esp when you rotate it.