What are your thoughts on removing the in tank fuel 'sock' and installing an in line filter?
1973 F250 dual tank truck that has been in storage for 11 years. I rebuilt the carb, got it running on an electric pump and temp fuel tank, onto my trailer and home in the shop.
I've removed and cleaned both tanks, both were full of nasty stuff. I believe I have them in pretty decent shape.
My thoughts are to leave the in tank pick up fuel strainers off and install a see through in line filter in the area of the tank select valve. Anyone see why this is a bad idea? If there is any crud remaining in the tank I would like to be able to see it collecting in the filter and replace same filter than have to drop the tanks to get to the socks. Keep in mind this is old school mechanical engine driven fuel pump and mechanical tank switching valve. Of course the fuel pump and all soft hoses will be replaced as well as the switching valve will be rebuilt. Comments?
TIA

 

At first glance, I don't see why it would be a problem, but I haven't heard of anyone ever doing it, so I can't guarantee that some odd issue won't come up. Personally though, I don't think it's worth the hassle. I haven't heard of too many cases of the fuel tank having to be dropped simply because of the sock. My Galaxie has the original sending unit and the sock has been in use for nearly 40 years without a problem; the sock in my '79 was fine when I replaced the sending unit as well. The sock isn't a periodic maintenance item like the fuel filter. But, who is to say that a new sock wouldn't allow more fuel flow in either case (the one in my truck was pretty discolored). I don't think it's worth the trouble since your tanks are completely clean now, so you wouldn't expect to find anything in the clear filter for now anyway. Maybe others will have different opinions; that's just my 2 cents worth.

 

I wouldn't do it. I think you generally don't want the junk from the tank in your system. The strainer isn't really a filter anyway...It just keeps the big stuff from getting sucked up the line. It really takes a lot of crud to block up a strainer.