Mercedes Mullins
The Ford F-150 is a pickup truck manufactured by Ford Motor Company, which has offered dual fuel tanks as an option on some models. Dual fuel tanks allow the driver to switch between two separate fuel tanks while driving, increasing the vehicle's range. The dual-tank system has been available on F-150 models from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s, and possibly later. The front and rear tanks are typically of similar capacity, although some owners have opted to replace the rear tank with a larger one. Issues with the dual fuel tank system have been reported, including fuel being siphoned from one tank to the other, inaccurate fuel gauge readings, and problems with the tank switch.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34.7 gallons (combined) - approximately 24 gallons in the main tank and 10 gallons in the auxiliary tank |
| Range | Up to 750 miles on a single fill-up |
| Fuel Type | Main tank: gasoline; Auxiliary tank: gasoline or E85 ethanol |
| Benefits | Extended range, flexibility to use different fuel types, and improved fuel economy |
| Auxiliary Tank Location | Mounted ahead of the rear axle, underneath the bed |
| Fuel Selection | Automatic or manual selection between tanks |
| Fuel Fill-up | Two separate filler necks, located on either side of the truck |
| Tank Switching | Seamless switching between tanks while driving |
| Gauge | Two fuel level gauges in the instrument cluster |
| Bed Length | Dual fuel tank option is available for 6.5-foot and 8-foot bed lengths |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 14,000 pounds |
| Availability | Optional feature on select Ford F-150 models |
| Cost | Varies depending on the trim level and options selected |
| Warranty | Ford's standard warranty coverage |
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What You'll Learn
Issues with dual fuel tanks
Another issue reported by owners is fuel dripping or gushing from the front tank filler hole, sometimes causing the truck to run roughly or even die. One owner reported that this issue was caused by a failed relay, which resulted in excess fuel being returned to the front tank, eventually causing it to overflow. Other potential causes of this issue include a faulty fuel pump, a loose wire on the back of the switch at the dash, or a problem with the fuel injection system.
Some owners have also reported problems with the fuel gauge, showing inconsistent readings, and issues with the tank switch, causing the truck to only pull fuel from the front tank, regardless of the selected tank. One owner suggested that this issue could be caused by a faulty solenoid, which is responsible for switching between the two tanks.
Other issues reported by owners include a clogged fuel filter between the tanks, backfilling issues, and rusted-through tanks. Some owners have expressed frustration with the lack of a quick fix for these issues and have had to resort to workarounds, such as siphoning off excess fuel or using only one tank. Overall, it appears that Ford dual tank systems have been a consistent source of problems for many owners, resulting in aggravation and additional expenses.
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Fuel being siphoned between tanks
The Ford F-150 is a pickup truck that offers a dual-tank fuel system. This system allows the driver to switch between two fuel tanks, typically a front and rear tank, to extend the vehicle's range before refuelling.
Some owners of the Ford F-150 with dual fuel tanks have reported issues with fuel being siphoned or transferred between the two tanks. This can result in one tank filling up while the other is being used, or the vehicle acting as if it has run out of fuel even when there is fuel in one of the tanks.
While it is unclear why this issue occurs, some possible causes could include a faulty fuel pump, damaged check valve, or an issue with the fuel lines. One user reported that installing external check valves in the fuel lines of both tanks resolved the issue. Another user suggested that the problem might be due to a faulty fuel pump relay, as checking for power to the fuel pumps could help identify the issue.
It is important to note that attempting to fix this issue without proper knowledge or training can be dangerous and may cause further damage to the vehicle. Therefore, it is recommended that owners of the Ford F-150 with dual fuel tanks consult a certified mechanic or a Ford dealership for inspection and repair.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that siphoning fuel from a vehicle can be a risky and potentially dangerous task. While it may be necessary in certain situations, such as when stranded on the side of the road with an empty tank, it is important to exercise caution and follow proper safety procedures. Furthermore, siphoning fuel is illegal in some areas, and it can also damage the vehicle if not done correctly.
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Tank capacity differences
The Ford F-150 is a truck with a dual fuel tank system. This means that it has two fuel tanks: one in the front and one in the rear. The capacity of each tank can vary depending on the model year of the F-150. For example, one user with a 1996 F150 reported that their front tank had a capacity of 19.8 gallons, while the rear tank could hold 18.0 gallons. Another user with a 1992 model stated that their front tank had a capacity of 18 gallons, while the rear tank had a capacity of 20 gallons.
The dual fuel tank system in the Ford F-150 allows the driver to switch between the two tanks while driving. There is a switch located next to the headlight switch that allows the driver to select which tank is being used. Some older models may also have a manual switch under the driver's seat. The fuel gauge will display the level of the tank that is selected, and the truck will pull fuel from that tank until it is empty, or the driver switches to the other tank.
It is important to note that there have been some issues reported with the dual fuel tank system in the Ford F-150. Some users have reported that fuel is being transferred from one tank to the other, causing one tank to overflow. This issue may be due to a damaged check valve in the fuel pump/sender assembly, which Ford had recalled in the past. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the fuel gauge, with the gauge showing an inaccurate reading of the fuel level.
To address the issue of fuel transferring between tanks, it is recommended to install external check valves in the fuel lines of both the front and rear tanks. This will prevent fuel from flowing between the tanks and causing an overflow. It is also important to regularly maintain and inspect the fuel system to ensure that all components are in good working condition.
Overall, the dual fuel tank system in the Ford F-150 provides added convenience and flexibility for drivers, allowing them to switch between two fuel tanks as needed. However, it is important to be aware of potential issues and take the necessary steps to maintain and care for the fuel system.
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Tank switch issues
The dual-tank system in a Ford F-150 allows drivers to switch between the front and rear tanks for fuel supply. However, some users have experienced issues with the tank switch, resulting in problems such as fuel transferring between tanks, inaccurate fuel gauge readings, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
One common issue with the dual-tank system in the Ford F-150 is fuel transferring from one tank to the other. This can lead to an overflow from the filler cap and spillage. This issue was addressed by Ford through a recall, which has since expired. The recommended solution is to install external check valves in the fuel lines of both tanks to prevent fuel transfer.
Another issue reported by F-150 owners is the inaccurate fuel gauge readings when switching between tanks. In some cases, the fuel gauge may max out regardless of the selected tank, indicating a potential issue with the sending unit or fuel level sensor.
Some users have also experienced problems starting their F-150 due to issues with the dual-tank switch. In some cases, replacing the dual-tank switch provides a temporary solution, but the issue may recur after a few months. This could be related to debris in the return line or an issue with the tank switch not switching the return line to the front tank.
Additionally, some owners have reported that their F-150 continues to pull fuel from the front tank even when the switch is set to the rear tank. This issue may be related to the solenoid on the bottom of the tank, which has a natural position, or a loose wire on the back of the switch at the dash.
To address these tank switch issues, it is recommended to consult a certified mechanic or a Ford specialist. They can inspect the fuel system, including the fuel lines, pumps, valves, and switches, to identify and resolve any issues. Regular maintenance and following Ford's recommendations can help prevent and address potential problems with the dual-tank system in the Ford F-150.
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Fuel gauge issues
The Ford F-150 is a pickup truck that offers a dual fuel tank system. This system allows the driver to switch between two fuel tanks, typically a front and rear tank, to extend the vehicle's range.
Some Ford F-150 owners have experienced issues with their fuel gauges when using the dual fuel tank system. One common problem is the fuel gauge reading inaccurately, such as showing a full tank when it is empty, or vice versa. This issue can occur on either the front or rear tank, or both.
There are several potential causes for fuel gauge issues in the Ford F-150 with dual fuel tanks:
Faulty Fuel Tank Sending Unit:
The fuel tank sending unit is responsible for measuring the fuel level and sending this information to the fuel gauge. If the sending unit fails, it can cause the gauge to read inaccurately. This issue can affect one or both tanks.
Damaged Wiring or Connections:
The wiring and connections between the fuel tank sending unit and the fuel gauge are crucial for accurate readings. Damaged or loose wiring, or incorrect connections, can lead to inaccurate fuel gauge readings. This issue may require tracing and repairing the wiring or connections.
Faulty Fuel Pump Relay:
The fuel pump relay controls the power supply to the fuel pumps. If this relay malfunctions, it can cause issues with fuel delivery and affect the accuracy of the fuel gauge. Checking for power at the fuel pumps can help diagnose this issue.
Cross-Tank Fuel Flow:
In some cases, fuel may be transferred or siphoned from one tank to the other due to a damaged check valve in the fuel pump or sender assembly. This can result in an overflow from the filler cap of the receiving tank and affect fuel gauge readings. Installing external check valves in the fuel lines can rectify this issue.
Vehicle-Specific Issues:
To troubleshoot fuel gauge issues in the Ford F-150 with dual fuel tanks, owners can refer to online forums and seek advice from mechanics or Ford specialists. Diagnosing and resolving these issues may involve checking voltage, grounding wires, replacing components, or consulting vehicle manuals and wiring diagrams.
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Frequently asked questions
There are two fills, one in front of the wheel and one in the rear. Each tank has its own fuel door and switch.
There is a switch next to the headlight switch that allows you to alternate between the two tanks.
The front tank is considered the main tank.
