Hey guys, long time lurker... first post.

I recently picked up a 77 F250 XLT and I'm having a blast with it so far. One issue I have is that the previous owner told me that the filler neck was broken on the front tank (rear is brand new with all new hardware). I got it in the garage and the next day I almost passed out from the fumes when I walked in. I have a few questions that I couldn't find the answer to when searching (forgive me if it's been discussed before).

I don't have a key to the front tank, so I plan on drilling the cap off and replacing it. Any easy solution?
I don't see any obvious leaks in the filler neck but the hose connecting it to the tank is seriously rotted and cracked. Can I drop the tank with the filler neck attached?

My plan is to drop the tank, replace any hoses necessary along with the filler neck. I will clean the tank out at that time. Is there anything I should know before dropping the tank and doing this?
I have a fuel line tool (the blue one) so that shouldn't be an issue... just looking for suggestions before I dive in.
Would it be worth getting a new hose and seeing if it works before dropping it? I'm worried that it hasn't been used in so long that the gas in there is probably bad.

Thanks!
Jeff

 

I changed the front tank filler hose in my 78 a couple weeks ago. Not a hard job, but the tank is rather awkward. If the tank is relatively empty, you can remove the mounting hardware, and the filler hose will suspend the tank. But you'll likely want to drop and clean the tank. Also, much easier to remove and install the new hose with the tank on the ground. Use some Vaseline to slide the new rubber onto the metal pipes.

I bought the hose assembly from Bronco Graveyard, and it was Dennis Carpenter product

 

Welcome to the posting world, ya lurker. lol I would think that getting a key cut from a lock smith should be cheap and easy. Since you can drive it to them no house call fee.

If you do drill the cap make sure you replace it with a similar one (vented or none vented). I do not believe you will need any special fuel line tool.

You might as well replace the sending unit since you are doing all the other work. If the truck is 4wd and you have that big metal skid plate/support piece make sure you clean it out real well.

Once it is removed, drill some drain holes and coat it on both sides with something like chassis saver or POR-15.

And take lots of pic and do a tech thread.