we have a 1986 ford f150 4x4 with a mid ship mounted fuel tank 16 gallons. i am trying to get a new sending unit however i cant seem to find one like the one i had. any suggestions or does anyone know if i can get one thats not exact if it would work?

 

I ordered mine from lmctruck.com . But i just got a catalog from broncograveyard.com . He has them and specializes in Fords.



What i got from lmc

 

I gave a "rep" to you for your quick and informative answer, JayzDaddy!

Welcome to the forum, ewhit8! You will find helpful and caring members, here.

 

Thanks 86!
Didnt notice this was a first post. Welcome to FTE!

I too know the pain of trying to locate some parts the chain stores dont carry. Get you a catalog from lmctruck.com. They have some decent exploded diagrams. Even if you dont order from them, the catalog is free and the diagrams can be helpful in taking things apart, or the name of a small piece of a larger unit.

 

thanks we ordered it and it came in and is a match. we are new at this rebuild thing. any suggestions on where else to start. the truck used to run then sat up for a few years. so far we have got a new carb, gas tank and line and sending unit.

 

After one sits for a long time, it is best to replace the fluids and check over everything for tightness, etc. Check all rubber hoses for cracks and dryness.

Have you attempted to start it yet?

Be sure and replace the fuel filter! I would attempt the first start outside [away from house] and have a fire extinguisher nearby. Better safe than sorry!

 

Being as it sat i would pull the plugs and hit em with a wire brush unless they need replaced too. While they are out maybe shoot some wd40 in the plug holes just for a bit of pre start lube. Maybe pull the valve covers and pour a quart of oil through the heads instead of just through the filler cap. This will help lube the upper assemblys pre start. As stated do a fuel filter. May need to pour a little gas in the carb to help get it running on its own. Be prepared for leaks. May also pull the water pump and see what the impeller looks like and if there looks like rust in the jackets. If you have rust flush it with a hose. 3 bucks for a gasket and 20-30 minutes time here could save a overheat and damage later. Pull your distributor cap and check the rotor. You can spritz this with wd40 as well to lube and get rid of some moisture. Check your belts for slack and cracking.

If possible with the plugs out try to turn the engine over a full rotation or 2 with a breaker bar. Just to see if its free and to spread the wd40 and oil around a bit. It can also let you feel if everything is free moving. Flush your radiator out with a hose too.

Once you get it running hold the brakes and let out on clutch slowly or give gas slowly if auto. Better to find brake problems then than at 35 later on.