Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**Frizzle Fry** · 04-04-2007, 04:39 PM

After mentioning this tank on the Low-Buck thread I've had a few PMs about it, so I figured I'd post the info here.

I did this a couple years ago and have since sold the truck to board member JRB. So I'll post all the pics I have of it, for any more pics (such as the sender mod) we'll have to go through JRB.

You can get 73-87 style Blazer tanks "new" (old but not used), from HERE for $25 plus about $25(+/-) shipping. Search for Blazer and it will come up. They do list as "Diesel," but that does not matter for our application. Since they are unused they will hold gasoline just as well as they would diesel (no flush required).

To save even more money I welded in the sender flange from the truck tank, and bent the truck's sending unit float arm to work in the blazer tank.

The Blazer sending unit has a bigger flange/seal and these tanks don't come with a sending unit. I was on a really tight budget at the time and didn't want to buy the correct sending unit at ~$120 or so new. So I figured out how to use the sending unit out of the truck tank. Part of that involved cutting the smaller flange from the truck tank and welding it into the blazer tank.

Then the dip tube and float arm had to be bent appropriately to work in the detentions of the new tank. It actually ended up working flawlessly.
...or you could just buy the sender that goes to that tank.

I also welded on the filler neck from the truck so I could just use the original cap and fill through the bed floor. Because the tank is square you should be able to mount it turned 90* if you want to use a side filler.

***Safety Note: I filled the tank with water before welding. Even though it's "new" there's just something scary about welding on a fuel tank.. maybe it's just me

Also, I believe the tanks are galvanized, but if you sufficiently clean the areas to be welded with a blaster or wire-wheel you can make a good weld. Just be sure to do it outside and avoid the fumes more than you normally would when welding. I've heard galvanic poisoning sucks big time

The "crooked" crossmember behind the rear-end had to be trimmed a bit as seen in the pics.

The hanger straps I used were found in the plumbing section of Home Depot. I think they are meant for securing hot water heaters. These were not the type with perforations. They are galvanized with doubled-over edges. I also used a plastic/rubber insulator made from that floor/wall/edge kick-guard stuff you see in classrooms and offices (another Home Depot purchase).

I held the tank in place with a floor-jack, drilled through one strap and the frame, secured it, then pulled it tight and did the same on the other side. In the end I used 4 bolts per strap.

I extended the fuel gauge wire and ran rubber fuel line from where it normally turns from the frame over to the cab floor. I bent that back towards the back more (normally a 90) so that I still had access to install the clamp, but got the fuel line back into the frame as soon as possible. I know some say you should always run 100% steel line for fuel, but I felt safe with the way I routed and secured the line.

So for $50 plus a couple penny items I was in business

Here's the pics:

**Frizzle Fry** · 04-04-2007, 04:40 PM

...and the joy of no in-cab tank

jimmydean · 04-04-2007, 05:08 PM

Nice work! I have no excuse now!

The huge box of audio/video equipment (currently sitting in my garage) thanks you in advance.

**dan42** · 04-04-2007, 05:13 PM

That's a keeper - I'm bookmaarking it -

LUV2XCLR8 · 04-04-2007, 05:15 PM

How many gallons is that?

**Frizzle Fry** · 04-04-2007, 05:53 PM

Since that is a a Military Surplus place I think when these tanks are gone they are gone. Not sure how many they have. I've though about buying one just for a future truck.

The site lists it as 27 gallons, but I remember it was more like 25.

Shane · 04-04-2007, 05:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LUV2XCLR8

How many gallons is that?

The link says 27 gallons.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Frizzle's link

U.S. Military Issue. These are replacement Fuel Tanks for Military Chevy Blazers. 27 gal. fuel capacity.
Measurements are 26 in. x 26 in. x 9 in.
Unused but weathered.
Made in the USA.
There will be an additional $5.00 added to shipping due to a no box fee.

nevada70chev · 04-04-2007, 09:16 PM

thanks for the info, looking to do the swap.

*72CSTC5* · 04-04-2007, 11:09 PM

I already bought one for the price and will put it in my short bed.

RACINJASON22 · 04-04-2007, 11:30 PM

Looks like a good thread for the FAQ's section to me after it bounces around here for awhile of course. Very nice work and GR8 tech. Thank You much Frizzle Fry.

**SCOTI** · 04-04-2007, 11:33 PM

Should be able to find a blazer/burb gas tank in a wrecking yard & snag the sending unit out of that for cheap if you don't have the ability to weld on the 'new' tank.

***Mudder*** · 04-05-2007, 04:03 AM

I got a Blazer tank from a salvage yard with the skid plate, cross members, fill tube, and straps for 60 bucks. I ran it completely empty one weekend (ran out of gas in the parking lot of a gas station, LOL) just to see how much it would hold. It went to 33 gallons. That was from an 85 Blazer. The skid plate is great and an added protection IMO, and also helps to hold the tank in place.

**Frizzle Fry** · 04-05-2007, 08:21 PM

Any Pics of that skid plate Mudder?

DangerBoy · 04-05-2007, 09:30 PM

You guys just love helping me find ways to spend my rent money don't you...

***Mudder*** · 04-06-2007, 03:28 AM

I have partial pics.

70rs/ss · 04-06-2007, 11:41 AM

I just bought the Blazer tanks (2) so they have 8 left!!

**timcos** · 04-06-2007, 02:18 PM

I just ordered one....with 39 shipping to Utah.

Not bad and what a great project.

jbboater · 04-06-2007, 06:12 PM

Got one $43 total shipped to RI. Nice information, thanks. I'm trying to do the whole project low budget without sacrificing quality. This fits the plan perfectly!

**krue** · 04-06-2007, 08:54 PM

Remind me to put this in FAQ after everyone has seen it.

**IvelDesigns** · 04-06-2007, 09:34 PM

just picked one up. thanks for the link!!

**Frizzle Fry** · 04-07-2007, 01:25 PM

Man, I should have posted this 2 years ago

Glad you guys are getting some good use out of it! I wonder how many they have left. Now, when I go to buy one for a future project they'll be out.

*72CSTC5* · 04-07-2007, 01:44 PM

Yeah that surplus store is going to wonder what the hell is going on huh?

**drman929** · 04-07-2007, 11:37 PM

Haha, yeah..you know, it is the season for everyone to buy blazer tanks!

I grabbed one...

**Frizzle Fry** · 04-11-2007, 12:11 AM

One more bump and then I'll ask Krue to put it in FAQ...

**sixty8c10** · 04-11-2007, 12:31 PM

nice....thanks for the info

04-04-2007, 04:39 PM	#1
Frizzle Fry It's only metal Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 5,244	Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 After mentioning this tank on the Low-Buck thread I've had a few PMs about it, so I figured I'd post the info here. I did this a couple years ago and have since sold the truck to board member JRB. So I'll post all the pics I have of it, for any more pics (such as the sender mod) we'll have to go through JRB. You can get 73-87 style Blazer tanks "new" (old but not used), from HERE for $25 plus about $25(+/-) shipping. Search for Blazer and it will come up. They do list as "Diesel," but that does not matter for our application. Since they are unused they will hold gasoline just as well as they would diesel (no flush required). To save even more money I welded in the sender flange from the truck tank, and bent the truck's sending unit float arm to work in the blazer tank. The Blazer sending unit has a bigger flange/seal and these tanks don't come with a sending unit. I was on a really tight budget at the time and didn't want to buy the correct sending unit at ~$120 or so new. So I figured out how to use the sending unit out of the truck tank. Part of that involved cutting the smaller flange from the truck tank and welding it into the blazer tank. Then the dip tube and float arm had to be bent appropriately to work in the detentions of the new tank. It actually ended up working flawlessly. ...or you could just buy the sender that goes to that tank. I also welded on the filler neck from the truck so I could just use the original cap and fill through the bed floor. Because the tank is square you should be able to mount it turned 90* if you want to use a side filler. *Safety Note: I filled the tank with water before welding. Even though it's "new" there's just something scary about welding on a fuel tank.. maybe it's just me Also, I believe the tanks are galvanized, but if you sufficiently clean the areas to be welded with a blaster or wire-wheel you can make a good weld. Just be sure to do it outside and avoid the fumes more than you normally would when welding. I've heard galvanic poisoning sucks big time The "crooked" crossmember behind the rear-end had to be trimmed a bit as seen in the pics. The hanger straps I used were found in the plumbing section of Home Depot. I think they are meant for securing hot water heaters. These were not the type with perforations. They are galvanized with doubled-over edges. I also used a plastic/rubber insulator made from that floor/wall/edge kick-guard stuff you see in classrooms and offices (another Home Depot purchase). I held the tank in place with a floor-jack, drilled through one strap and the frame, secured it, then pulled it tight and did the same on the other side. In the end I used 4 bolts per strap. I extended the fuel gauge wire and ran rubber fuel line from where it normally turns from the frame over to the cab floor. I bent that back towards the back more (normally a 90) so that I still had access to install the clamp, but got the fuel line back into the frame as soon as possible. I know some say you should always run 100% steel line for fuel, but I felt safe with the way I routed and secured the line. So for $50 plus a couple penny items I was in business Here's the pics: Attached Images __________________ 61 Stepside + C5 Vette + Body Mods (on hold) 64 Driver/Work Truck (will be a Shortbed Big Window one day) 66 Sunbeam+S2000 (Project DriftBeam) (Updated 07/13/10) On Speedhunters 69 Tahoe Build (115" WB Suburban) (back on hold...) In Ink!** DIY Fiberglass Kick Panels/Speakers DIY "Factory" AM/MP3 Radio Roadtrip Checklist

04-04-2007, 04:40 PM	#2
Frizzle Fry It's only metal Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 5,244	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 ...and the joy of no in-cab tank Attached Images __________________ 61 Stepside + C5 Vette + Body Mods (on hold) 64 Driver/Work Truck (will be a Shortbed Big Window one day) 66 Sunbeam+S2000 (Project DriftBeam) (Updated 07/13/10) On Speedhunters 69 Tahoe Build (115" WB Suburban) (back on hold...) In Ink! DIY Fiberglass Kick Panels/Speakers DIY "Factory" AM/MP3 Radio Roadtrip Checklist

04-04-2007, 05:08 PM	#3
jimmydean Senior Member Join Date: May 2005 Location: Forest Grove, OR Posts: 1,823	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Nice work! I have no excuse now! The huge box of audio/video equipment (currently sitting in my garage) thanks you in advance. __________________ New Project: 1971 LWB C10 Plans: Biodiesel conversion 6.2 Turbo Diesel running home made B100 Dropmember 4 link rear Bags all around http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s....php?p=2702054 Last edited by jimmydean; 04-04-2007 at 05:08 PM.

04-04-2007, 05:13 PM	#4
dan42 Moderator Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Santa Maria California Posts: 3,901	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 That's a keeper - I'm bookmaarking it - __________________ '67 SWB Fleetside 350/SM465 '70 LWB 3/4 ton 350/350 sold! '10 4 door Silverado 4X4 (worker bee) Click here to support the board "The best high is the Most High!"

04-04-2007, 05:15 PM	#5
LUV2XCLR8 My Square Corvette Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: TN Posts: 30,050	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 How many gallons is that? __________________ PROJECT: "YFTSB" 1972 BLAZER 2WD TOW RIG: "GAS HOG" Y2K GMC 3500

04-04-2007, 05:53 PM	#6
Frizzle Fry It's only metal Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 5,244	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Since that is a a Military Surplus place I think when these tanks are gone they are gone. Not sure how many they have. I've though about buying one just for a future truck. The site lists it as 27 gallons, but I remember it was more like 25. __________________ 61 Stepside + C5 Vette + Body Mods (on hold) 64 Driver/Work Truck (will be a Shortbed Big Window one day) 66 Sunbeam+S2000 (Project DriftBeam) (Updated 07/13/10) On Speedhunters 69 Tahoe Build (115" WB Suburban) (back on hold...) In Ink! DIY Fiberglass Kick Panels/Speakers DIY "Factory" AM/MP3 Radio Roadtrip Checklist

04-04-2007, 09:16 PM	#8
nevada70chev Registered User Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: reno, nv Posts: 649	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 thanks for the info, looking to do the swap. __________________ 70 LWB, 350/350 A/C, P/S, 3 Tone Paint (white cap, primer gray with black guide coat)

04-04-2007, 11:09 PM	#9
72CSTC5 Account Suspended Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Deer Park, Tx. Posts: 2,527	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 I already bought one for the price and will put it in my short bed.

04-04-2007, 11:30 PM	#10
RACINJASON22 GEARHEAD Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: CENTRAL,PA Posts: 2,290	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Looks like a good thread for the FAQ's section to me after it bounces around here for awhile of course. Very nice work and GR8 tech. Thank You much Frizzle Fry. __________________ 72 SWB 2WD MY PROJECT 72 LWB 4X4 FUTURE PROJECT SUBSCRIBE HEREBOARD VENDORS HERE NORWOOD MEET SURVIVOR! Last edited by RACINJASON22; 04-04-2007 at 11:31 PM.

04-04-2007, 11:33 PM	#11
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 10,016	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Should be able to find a blazer/burb gas tank in a wrecking yard & snag the sending unit out of that for cheap if you don't have the ability to weld on the 'new' tank. __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Stella 74SWB-Driver/Tow Truck All Fleetsides http://www.hubgarage.com/mygarage/scoti

04-05-2007, 04:03 AM	#12
*Mudder* Firefighter/First Responder Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: East Central, MO Posts: 11,143	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 I got a Blazer tank from a salvage yard with the skid plate, cross members, fill tube, and straps for 60 bucks. I ran it completely empty one weekend (ran out of gas in the parking lot of a gas station, LOL) just to see how much it would hold. It went to 33 gallons. That was from an 85 Blazer. The skid plate is great and an added protection IMO, and also helps to hold the tank in place. __________________ 67 Stepside 4x4 (Red) 383 Stroker 02 ZR2 4x4 (Red)

04-05-2007, 08:21 PM	#13
Frizzle Fry It's only metal Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 5,244	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Any Pics of that skid plate Mudder? __________________ 61 Stepside + C5 Vette + Body Mods (on hold) 64 Driver/Work Truck (will be a Shortbed Big Window one day) 66 Sunbeam+S2000 (Project DriftBeam) (Updated 07/13/10) On Speedhunters 69 Tahoe Build (115" WB Suburban) (back on hold...) In Ink! DIY Fiberglass Kick Panels/Speakers DIY "Factory" AM/MP3 Radio Roadtrip Checklist

04-05-2007, 09:30 PM	#14
DangerBoy Registered User Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Hanford,Ca Posts: 259	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 You guys just love helping me find ways to spend my rent money don't you... __________________ Sand, primer, paint it black.

04-06-2007, 03:28 AM	#15
*Mudder* Firefighter/First Responder Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: East Central, MO Posts: 11,143	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 I have partial pics. Attached Images __________________ 67 Stepside 4x4 (Red) 383 Stroker 02 ZR2 4x4 (Red)

04-06-2007, 11:41 AM	#16
70rs/ss Registered User Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Northern AZ Posts: 7,218	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 I just bought the Blazer tanks (2) so they have 8 left!! __________________ 70 RS/SS 4-speed Camaro w/AC 80 HD Sportster/Chopper 90 454 SS chevy truck 72 Burb 2wd now (w/68 clip!) but 4X4 soon!! Check it out, "The BIG Unit!!" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=347574 NOW it's a 4X4 build here! http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=1#post3444581 Life should not be a jouney to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a well preserved body but rather sliding in, Goldschlagger shot in one hand, cell phone in the other, body thoughly used up and totally worn out screaming WoooooooooooHooooooooo WHAT A RIDE!!!!!!!!!!



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04-06-2007, 02:18 PM	#17
timcos Chief Honcho In Charge Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Bentonville AR Posts: 963	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 I just ordered one....with 39 shipping to Utah. Not bad and what a great project. __________________ 1992 1500 4x4 Shortbed 1984 Ford F250 Supercab Longbed 6.9L Diesel 1972 K10 Cheyenne Super Fleetside Short Bed - 350 - A/C 1971 VW SuperBeetle 1960 Wife 1984 Son 1986 Son 1989 Son Previous Trucks 1967 C10 SWB (1980-1981) 1971 C10 LWB (1998-2004)

04-06-2007, 06:12 PM	#18
jbboater New Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: RI Posts: 51	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Got one $43 total shipped to RI. Nice information, thanks. I'm trying to do the whole project low budget without sacrificing quality. This fits the plan perfectly! __________________ 1968 SWB Fleetside ~In Progress~ Plans: Disc Swap 454 Turbo 400 Lots of body work!! 2004 Victory Vegas Arlen Ness (My Bike) I guess you could say this is my second childhood.

04-06-2007, 08:54 PM	#19
krue Designated A-hole! Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: South Mississippi Posts: 36,025	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Remind me to put this in FAQ after everyone has seen it. __________________ "If it ain't broke, fix it 'til it is!" Being stupid ain't illegal. FAQ INDEX Thread We're Debt Free Except for the House!!! www.daveramsey.com

04-06-2007, 09:34 PM	#20
IvelDesigns Commander Taco Bello Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Des Moines, Iowa Posts: 2,233	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 just picked one up. thanks for the link!! __________________ Bagged '50 3600 - Bumper punchin' road kill since 2009... Bagged '69 C10 Longbed - Bumper punchin' road kill since 2007...

04-07-2007, 01:25 PM	#21
Frizzle Fry It's only metal Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 5,244	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Man, I should have posted this 2 years ago Glad you guys are getting some good use out of it! I wonder how many they have left. Now, when I go to buy one for a future project they'll be out. __________________ 61 Stepside + C5 Vette + Body Mods (on hold) 64 Driver/Work Truck (will be a Shortbed Big Window one day) 66 Sunbeam+S2000 (Project DriftBeam) (Updated 07/13/10) On Speedhunters 69 Tahoe Build (115" WB Suburban) (back on hold...) In Ink! DIY Fiberglass Kick Panels/Speakers DIY "Factory" AM/MP3 Radio Roadtrip Checklist

04-07-2007, 01:44 PM	#22
72CSTC5 Account Suspended Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Deer Park, Tx. Posts: 2,527	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Yeah that surplus store is going to wonder what the hell is going on huh?

04-07-2007, 11:37 PM	#23
drman929 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Arkansas Posts: 222	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 Haha, yeah..you know, it is the season for everyone to buy blazer tanks! I grabbed one...

04-11-2007, 12:11 AM	#24
Frizzle Fry It's only metal Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Hillsboro Oregon Posts: 5,244	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 One more bump and then I'll ask Krue to put it in FAQ... __________________ 61 Stepside + C5 Vette + Body Mods (on hold) 64 Driver/Work Truck (will be a Shortbed Big Window one day) 66 Sunbeam+S2000 (Project DriftBeam) (Updated 07/13/10) On Speedhunters 69 Tahoe Build (115" WB Suburban) (back on hold...) In Ink! DIY Fiberglass Kick Panels/Speakers DIY "Factory" AM/MP3 Radio Roadtrip Checklist

04-11-2007, 12:31 PM	#25
sixty8c10 MY EX DRIVES A BROOM Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: currently in Louisiana Posts: 833	Re: Blazer Tank Install on the CHEAP... $50 nice....thanks for the info __________________ They say nobody's perfect. I'm a nobody, so I must be perfect. Building Nemo

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