When assembling fuel tank and rear suspension/axle to body shell, which goes in first, the fuel tank or the suspension?

 

I removed my fuel tank to get the inside coated and reinstalled it. I never touched the rear suspension. So I would say put the suspension in first!

 

I agree. They are pretty independent and it does not matter. With all the weight and shifting with the install of the rear suspension, I think I would put the suspension on first to avoid any possible damage to the tank.

 

When you work in that area, be careful of putting your fingers between the axle and the flange of the tank. An unexpected movement of the axle can be painful.

 

Having restored 5 MK1s and a similar number of MK2s (not sure how many) it really doesn't matter which one comes first. By preference I go for the suspension/axle first so the fuel tank does not get in the way.
By the way always inspect the top of the fuel tank carefully. The area between the fuel tank and the boot (trunk?) floor is a great water/mud trap resulting in rust holes.
I have seen a few MK1-2 cars which have stated to leak from the top of the tank when the tank is completely filled.

While on the subject of MK1-2 fuel tanks do pay particular attention to the built in fuel filter in the bottom of the tank. This can easily get clogged resulting in fuel starvation.

Bill Mac
1957 MK1
1960 MK2
1980 S3 XJ6
1994 X300
1997 X308
Ford Falcon ute.
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