[Shop-talk] alternatives?

[John Miller]

> Plus, if the truck is very rusty (like noted) taking the bed off might be
> another case where you end up replacing other items as you try to remove
> it.
>

Yeah if it's a rustbucket of limited future potential then you want to 
disturb as little as possible, lest you end up having to drill out lots 
of bolts and fabricate lots of new brackets.

It's a truck, and it looks like the tank's in the rear, so ramps or a 
couple jackstands should provide enough clearance.  I would eyeball the 
retaining straps carefully, soak all the hardware in your penetrating 
oil of choice (me it's the 50/50 ATF/acetone mix), and maybe source a 
couple new mounting straps just in case it proves easiest just to cut 
the buggers and deal with the stubs left once the tank is out.

John.