Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/130418
diesel, 1999 to 2010 E-350, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-650, and F-750 Super Duty models. (Ford's lighter duty trucks use a different type tank, and isn't affected.) Ford contends that the issue is fuel related, so the factory warranty doesn't cover it. Even if it did, Ford doesn't have a fix, as a steel replacement tank will succumb to the same delamination. The potential damage to a vehicle from fuel-tank delamination can be even more substantial than merely clogging the filter. Tim Anderson of T&A Performance has worked on a number of Ford cab and chassis vehicles with delaminated tanks, and says that debris from the liner peeling off can also damage the pumps and injectors, leading to costly repairs. Rather than get embroiled in a debate about the possible causes and trying to point a finger of blame, we'll focus on a relatively simple solution: a poly tank replacement. Ken Anderson, general manager of Titan Fuel Tanks, says that about two years ago customers began contacting them about the Ford tank failures and seeking replacements. "Frankly we don't know what's causing the problem," he admits. But Titan's replacement tanks, made of cross-linked polyethylene, are impervious to such problems. In comparison to lessexpensive linear polyurethane, Anderson notes that this type of material is tougher and features better impact resistance. He adds that it's inert to most chemicals, even biodiesel (which can be corrosive to a fuel system). The extra strength and nonreactive aspect of Titan tanks are why they are often used in various military applications. How about for owners of commercial-duty Fords? "Titan's fuel tank fixes a problem that my 1 2 Start by draining out any of the old fuel, so the tank isn't too heavy to remove from the frame. You can re-use the fuel, but only after it's been thoroughly filtered. You'll probably need some help to remove the OE tank. Be sure to use a safety jack to support the tank while undoing the straps. 4 3 When cutting open the OE tank to show the delamination, Tim Anderson took normal safety precautions, filling the tank with water and C02 to displace the oxygen, along with having some fire extinguishers nearby. 6 5 These flakes from the liner clog up the fuel filter, causing a loss of power, and likely damaging the pump (a $500 fix) and injectors as well (an even more costly repair). 7 The dark band is the area where the liner has peeled off. Most of the OE parts for the fuel system (except for the tank, of course) are reused on the Titan tank. First unbolt the sending unit. 8 Carefully remove the entire sending unit and set aside. An O-ring gasket is included with the Titan tank. 9 Clean off any residue or flakes from the sending unit, and then insert into the Titan tank. PROPICKUP DIGITAL PP0613_Titan Tank install.indd 38 5/8/13 8:19 AM