1st gen gas tank help

Got a '65 1st gen with a damaged fuel tank.

options:
1. try and repair
2. source an OEM replacement tank (seem hard to come by?)
3. put in a larger tank and deal with cross member remove/reposition/reweld


Did I missing anything?

I prefer #2 for simplicity, but if I have to do #3 then does anyone have a source and spec for a after market 1st gen fit tank that will fit with minimal reconfig.


Chris

Least amount of headache & cost is #1; a lot of local radiator shops do them. There is vendor who does restoration show quality work.

ok, thanks Gary. The tank has a couple of significant dents and guessing the leak is coming from that area.

Will start there tho and let the repair shop him tell me.

Chris

Vans auto sells the new replacement tank for 2nd Gen. You have to move the crossmember. Also I read somewhere that some Chevy Blazer tanks will work. There are also custom fabrication shops who can custom make a tank.

Messing around with an old gas tank is just asking for trouble when you don't need it.

There are members here that would say different, but you will only be attempting to make a

silk purse from a sows ear. Spend your money once and never worry about it again.

Buy the new larger reproduction tank with the correct reproduction fuel sending unit for your

model year. Moving the small cross member piece 6 inches to the front isn't a big deal for an

experienced welder, if the area is clean. Most second generation vans have this already and

there are no aesthetic draw backs. If you value peace of mind for yourself, family and friends,

go new.

I got to bump head with my buddy Canad ian Least pain on rebuilding yours...

Anyway, for you reference:
I read the same as Russel - A fellow vanner used a 67-72 Blazer - hose change & shorten the straps is what he reported.  He said it went pretty easily.
Classic parts # 23-933

right. I think I saw this Blazer one mounted in a pic somewhere (?). A bit fatter so sits lower but otherwise all same dims.