Ameer Randolph
Ford Mustang enthusiasts have been asking this very question for years. The 2003 Cobra fuel tank is different from all other year Mustang fuel tanks due to its baffling, which provides fuel around the bucket, keeping the fuel hat assembly continuously submerged in fuel. This is an advantage for racing as it prevents fuel pressure loss. While it is possible to swap a 2003 Cobra fuel tank into a Foxbody Mustang, it is not a simple process. Modifications are required, including changing the filler neck and potentially modifying the floor of the trunk.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fit of 2003 Cobra fuel tank in a foxbody Mustang | Possible, but requires modifications to the floor of the trunk and the filler neck |
| Advantages of the 2003 Cobra fuel tank | High-quality fuel hats that can hold multiple in-tank pumps, baffling that provides fuel around the bucket, preventing fuel pressure loss and potential engine damage |
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What You'll Learn
- The 2003 Cobra fuel tank is different from other Mustang fuel tanks
- The Cobra tank has baffling to prevent fuel loss and engine damage
- The Fox filler tube is smaller than the Cobra tank's filler tube
- The Cobra tank has a smaller filler tube setup
- The Cobra tank has high-quality fuel hats that can hold multiple in-tank pumps
The 2003 Cobra fuel tank is different from other Mustang fuel tanks
Mustang fuel tanks vary by year and model. The 2003 Cobra fuel tank is different from other Mustang fuel tanks, particularly those of older models such as the Foxbody Mustang. The Cobra tank has a smaller filler tube and a smaller hole in the side of the tank, which means it may require modifications to fit in an older Foxbody Mustang.
The 2003 Cobra fuel tank is part of the returnless fuel system found in 1999 and later Cobra Mustangs. This system uses dual fuel pumps, whereas the Foxbody Mustangs from 1989 to 1993 use a return-style system. The 2003 Cobra tank also has a different fuel neck and filler grommet design, which may require adjustments to fit the Foxbody's stock fuel neck.
The advantage of the 2003 Cobra fuel tank is its high-quality fuel hats that can accommodate multiple in-tank pumps. This feature may appeal to those seeking to upgrade their fuel system. Additionally, the 2003 Cobra tank is baffled down to the pump basket, which is a desirable feature for some Mustang enthusiasts.
When considering a fuel tank swap, it's important to note that fuel tanks are specific to the Mustang's year and model. The capacity of Mustang fuel tanks has also improved over the years, increasing from 11.5 gallons in 1979-1980 to 16 gallons in 2005-2020. Therefore, a direct swap between the 2003 Cobra tank and the Foxbody tank may not be a simple plug-and-play affair, and modifications or custom fabrications may be necessary.
In conclusion, the 2003 Cobra fuel tank differs from other Mustang fuel tanks, particularly the Foxbody Mustang, in terms of design, fuel system configuration, and features. While a swap is possible, it may require adjustments and customizations to ensure a proper fit and function.
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The Cobra tank has baffling to prevent fuel loss and engine damage
The 2003 Cobra fuel tank can be fitted to a Foxbody Mustang, but it requires some modifications. The Cobra tank has a smaller filler tube and a smaller hole in the side of the tank, so you will need to modify the filler neck to make it fit. One option is to cut a section out of the Fox tank's filler neck and weld it into the Cobra tank, as described by a user on a Mustang forum:
> "I took a junk Fox tank and cut a section out that holds the filler grommet. Going to take the section I removed from the Fox tank and have it welded in the Cobra tank. That way I can maintain my stock Fox filler neck."
Another user suggests using the Fox filler tube instead:
> "I was talking to another guy that did the swap and he used his Fox filler tube, so that's what I'm doing."
It is also mentioned that the stock filler neck fits too loose and could cause gas to spill out, so a new filler neck may be required.
The Cobra fuel tank has some advantages over the Foxbody tank, including high-quality fuel hats that can hold multiple in-tank pumps and baffling to prevent fuel loss and engine damage. The baffling in the Cobra tank keeps the fuel around the bucket, ensuring the fuel hat assembly is continuously submerged in fuel. This prevents fuel pressure loss, which can cause engine damage.
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The Fox filler tube is smaller than the Cobra tank's filler tube
The filler tube on a Fox Mustang is smaller than the one on a Cobra Mustang. This means that when swapping a 2003 Cobra fuel tank into a Foxbody Mustang, some modifications are required to make the tank fit. One option is to use the stock Fox filler neck, which can be achieved by cutting a section out of a junk Fox tank that holds the filler grommet and welding it into the Cobra tank. This allows the user to maintain the stock Fox filler neck and avoid welding on a used tank.
Another option is to use a hose instead of welding the halves together, as suggested by some Mustang enthusiasts. This method does not require modifying the floor of the trunk to make the tank fit. However, it is important to note that the Cobra tank has a smaller hole in the side due to the smaller filler tube. Therefore, when using the Fox filler tube, one must cut and trim the section from the Fox tank that has the flange for the filler tube gasket and open up the hole on the Cobra tank accordingly.
It is worth noting that the 2003 Cobra fuel tank is different from all other year Mustang fuel tanks due to its baffling design, which provides fuel around the bucket and keeps the fuel hat assembly continuously submerged. This prevents fuel sloshing away from the fuel pump assembly, maintaining fuel pressure and protecting the engine from potential damage.
When performing the swap, it is recommended to use a custom billet fuel hat and fuel level sensor, or one of the factory fuel assemblies from the 2003 Cobra. Additionally, the stock Fox feed line can be used as a return line, but a regulator and some hoses may need to be purchased separately for a proper fit.
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The Cobra tank has a smaller filler tube setup
The 2003 Cobra fuel tank can be fitted into a foxbody Mustang, but it requires some modifications. One of the main differences between the two tanks is the filler tube setup. The Cobra tank has a smaller filler tube, which means that the hole in the side of the tank is smaller than that of the foxbody Mustang's stock tank.
To address this issue, some people have opted to modify the Cobra tank by cutting and welding. One approach is to cut a section out of the stock Fox tank that holds the filler grommet and then weld it into the Cobra tank. This allows the stock Fox filler neck to be retained, ensuring a proper fit.
Another method involves cutting the section of the Fox tank that has the flange for the filler tube gasket and trimming it down. This trimmed section is then fitted into the Cobra tank after enlarging the hole. Plates are also cut out to cover the factory vent valve and other holes in the Cobra tank.
It is important to note that welding on a used tank may be concerning for some. As a safer alternative, some individuals opt to have a professional welder or a local radiator shop perform the welding work.
While the smaller filler tube setup of the Cobra tank requires modifications, it is possible to successfully install the 2003 Cobra fuel tank into a foxbody Mustang with careful planning and execution.
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The Cobra tank has high-quality fuel hats that can hold multiple in-tank pumps
The 2003 Cobra fuel tank can be fitted to a foxbody Mustang. However, some modifications may be required to ensure a proper fit. The Cobra tank has a smaller filler tube and a smaller hole in the side of the tank compared to the stock Fox tank. Some people have chosen to cut a section out of the Fox tank's filler neck and weld it into the Cobra tank to maintain the stock Fox filler neck. Others have opted to use a hose instead of welding the halves together.
The dual fuel pump setup in the Cobra tank is a common modification for those seeking to upgrade their fuel system. The dual pumps are located internally within the Cobra tank, providing a neat and tidy solution for those looking to add additional fuel pumps to their vehicle. This setup can also help to avoid the need for external fuel pumps, which some may consider unsightly.
The Cobra tank's ability to accommodate multiple in-tank pumps makes it a popular choice for those seeking to upgrade their fuel system. By utilising multiple pumps, it is possible to achieve higher fuel flow rates, which can be beneficial for vehicles with increased performance or fuel demands. The dual pump setup can also provide redundancy, ensuring that there is a backup pump in the event of a failure.
The Cobra tank's fuel hats are designed to securely hold the in-tank pumps in place. This ensures that the pumps are stable and do not move or vibrate excessively during vehicle operation. The fuel hats also provide a sealed environment, preventing fuel vapours from escaping and ensuring the fuel system remains pressurised. This can help to improve fuel pump efficiency and reduce the risk of fuel leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a 2003 Cobra fuel tank will fit a foxbody Mustang. However, modifications may be required, such as changing the filler neck or adjusting the floor of the trunk.
To fit a 2003 Cobra fuel tank into a foxbody Mustang, you may need to modify the filler neck or adjust the floor of the trunk. You can use a stock fox feed line as your return line and purchase a regulator and some hoses.
The 2003 Cobra fuel tank features baffling, which provides fuel around the bucket and keeps the fuel hat assembly submerged in fuel. This prevents fuel sloshing and loss of fuel pressure, reducing the risk of engine damage.
Yes, you may consider using a different year Cobra fuel tank or modifying your existing foxbody fuel tank to accommodate your needs. Some people have used a 1999+ filler neck with success in foxbody Mustangs.
You can find 2003 Cobra fuel tanks for sale through online retailers, such as On 3 Performance, or through Mustang forums and communities. These forums also provide valuable information and resources for installing and modifying fuel tanks.
