I was driving my F-250 down the road last night and I noticed a strange fluttering noise. After listening to it, I thought it might be the start of an exhaust manifold leak.

After checking it out today, I could find no evidence of a leak. I got out the creeper and started poking around under the truck. I found that one of the two white plastic straps that go around the fuel tank had somehow broken, and the loose end was rubbing on the driveshaft.

I trimmed the loose ends up so it wouldn't rub on anything....but that got me thinking, what are those two white plastic straps for? Do I need to drop the tank and replace them?

 

I believe they're only used for lifting (or lowering) the tank. Helpful if it's full of fuel.

 

One of mine broke a while ago and pulled it out and have had no ill effects. I think you are good to go

 

I think I got the same thing.I saw a white strap as well but havent checked it out yet.I hope to hear answer

 

I still think I have an exhaust leak. I was towing yesterday and could still here a noise, but it has changed, so I am not sure if the strap is what was causing the fluttering noise.

Thank you for the response.