Yeah those two baffles slow things down. Mine is bowed at the back and the baffles don't touch so it might be an advantage . I might convert the tank to fuel injection with donor tank metal so it might be a better opportunity to clean it out.

 

Baffles would make it difficult to use chain but the bolts and nuts would still work. Use large diameter ones so they have weight to them. Make sure they get into the various partitions.

 

(Hint #2: since you live out in the country, make it a "Tom Sawyer" project, buy a couple pizzas, ice down some tea or sodas, invite all the kids around you to come over a see who can get it to make the loudest noise when they shake it. )

This is hilarious. Go AX!

 

I like to have them boiled out at a radiator shop, but now most are just part changing crews... Plastic tanks and all.... If I'm doing it myself I like to use a tank cleaner from the auto part store with about 3' of chain thrown in it too.... the chain does wonders for cleaning it, as it rubs against the bottom and sides....

 

Is this tank behind the seat in the cab? If so think about a 22 gal Mustang tank
between the frame rails in the back. No fumes and more room in the cab.

 

If you like science projects, here's a way to do it with a battery charger:

TECH: Gas Tank Rust Removal with a Battery Charger - Main Forum

 

I just did a thread on this, long story short I flushed the tank over the course of a couple days with vinegar, I used about 5 gallons. For more stubborn stuff use muriatic acid, used for swimming pools or cleaning brick/concrete. It's a little extreme but you won't have to do it twice. LOL

 

Spent a good part of Sunday boiling out my 48 F3's gas tank. I used a variety of the methods recommended in the thread...thanks all for the suggestions. All things considered the tank was in really good shape...once I got all the gunk out I was pleased to discover that it wasn't all rusted up inside. I actually got the truck to fire while I was working on the tank...definitely a good sign. I found out though that the fuel pump is either gummed up or bad...not sure if I should rebuild it or buy a new one. I borrowed a compression tester from a friend yesterday and plan to test the engine in the next few days. Anyway, I've attached a pic of my boiling operation...thanks again for all the great suggestions. Jeff K