Vannin' Community and Forums Forums General Discussion Introduce Yourself..... Ford Owner

Hey everyone, Thanks for having me. I signed up here quite a while back and things got put to the side with no time, but now I've got some time and I'm ready to get my van going.
I know I'm going to need some expert advice on the dual tank system as mine doesn't work...I think I need a new tank valve, so if anyone can help me out, I'd really appreciate it.

Mike

Welcome, Mike!

I have no experience with the dual tanks, but I would start with comparing it to a Bronco or even an F100 of the era to see if they are a common valve. My brother had a 1973 C10 with dual tanks and most of that stuff was obsolete, even for a Chevy. It may be a part you'll have to research through Bronco or F100 forums to see if there is a modern replacement or if it can be rebuilt.

Good news though, you have an E200. From my research, an E200 suspension is compatible with that of a 1973-1974 F100 in terms of disc brakes and I beams. So that is a major hurdle out of your way.

Let me know if you find an option for a valve.

to the site.

Thanks Charlie, All my paper work says it's an E150 1990 Top of the line Park Lane conversion I have a lot of the original paperwork with it, custom order sheet, repair records, etc.

I for the life of me do not understand why they would have isolated the rear tank though, being it's the larger of the 2 tanks, the rear is a 22 gal while the front is only 16 gal. I have heard of some people that have managed to put a larger single tank under them, that may also be a way to go. Thank you for your input.

newkirkinc1 Thank you

Welcome from Florida.
I wish I could offer you some help. We used to have a 1990 E150 that had two tanks. The previous owner bypassed the front tank because it was giving him trouble. Not sure what was done though.

Welcome Mike. I have a 1984 Ford E150 with dual tanks. Unfortunately, the previous owner replaced both tanks with 10 gal tanks, so I carry less fuel in both than the original rear tank held. I'll be looking at upgrading somewhere in the future.

Glad you've joined us.

Welcome from San Diego.

Hey Mike.
The system you have has a pressure operated change over valve operated by in-tank pump pressure. There is a low pressure pump in each tank (6-8 psi appox.) that are controlled via the dash switch. They in turn operate the change over valve via pressure, i.e. the in-tank pump that's running is the tank you're on and the other tank lines, both supply and return, are pushed closed since that pump is off. The change over valve can then feed the (much) higher pressure in-line pump that feeds the injectors. So there are three pumps total.
Ford designed it this way in the early '80's after issues with earlier electrically operated valves causing several fires, etc.
The change over valve was redesigned again in '90 and was a more dependable unit. Old gas will really gum them up and cause them to "stick" giving you only one tank. They would also sometimes swap the feed line but not the return causing the unused tank to refill with gas (even over flow).
The valves are rare in the parts stores and pricey as hell on line.
I would check that the in-tank pumps both run, operate and pump as a start. You can remove and clean the valve with solvent if you believe it is just gummed up. It's always worth a try.
Mark the fuel lines and be careful with those locking clips on the fuel lines as they will break easily.
Do a youtube search and you'll find lots of info. Some good, some not-so-good......