2nd Round of Repairs

I drove the CJ about 5 miles after getting the front put back together and it was much better. Still needs an alignment, will do that after the rear is done. I could drive with one hand and keep it in my lane without two hands on the wheel.

To put the new Shackles on the rear, I had to drop the 20 Gal. Fuel Tank. The Tank is a homemade skid cover made from 1/8" welded steel. The Fuel gage does not work and there was not enough room for new Exhaust are other reasons for dropping the Tank.





When I pulled the Fuel filler hoses off there were 8 clamps with electrical tape wrapped around the clamps. When I got a good look at them, the vent hose was spliced with garden hose in the center, and the Fuel hose was spliced with galvanized fence pipe.









I have made the decision to replace the Tank with a 15 Gal. and Crown Skid Plate. The rear Shackles are installed and now waiting on parts.

I have a question, does the fuel tank need an external liner between it and the skid plate?

Audie

 

My 98 tj did not have any thing other than some thin rubber between the straps and the tank.

 

There was nothing between the skid plate and the tank that I'm aware of. Anything you would put between those is likely to trap moisture and promote rust. Personally, I would have kept the larger tank. Jerry cans and their like are a pain in the posterior. But guess it depends on your use. I have always maximized the fuel capacity on my CJ's. Welded up a 24.5 gallon tank for the CJ3B.


I made that tank from 14 gauge and thought it was overkill so only used 1/8" 6061 for the skid plate. That was very clearly inadequate and another 1/4" was added to the skid plate. Again, depends on your use.


Some reason you can't run the exhaust on the outside of the frame rails?

 

John, this Jeep is a toy for me. It will be registered as an antique in Missouri (can't drive it as much, no emissions & inspections). I don't have the tools or skill to do very much fabrication/modification. I also need a hip and knee replaced and add diabetes and neuropathy; it's quite a chore for me. I have always been a gear head and keep going because I love it.

I bought the Walker pre-bent exhaust system, so the stock setup is the way I'm going. I understand why so many prefer the larger fuel tank and I considered keeping it, but I didn't want to pay the high price for the skid plate.

Your work is very strong and well made... you must off road, if not you will still be driving while I'm filling up.

Audie