Modifying fuel tank for exhaust clearance

[gravelguy]

I have a 1998 LSC, and looking at the exhaust system it could use some help. But I'm in California, so no headers, cat removal, etc.
I was wondering if I could modify the fuel tank to allow the pipes a straight shot to the rear. I'd extend the factory exhaust pipe clearance recess in the tank toward the passenger side about a foot. I'd lose fuel capacity yes, but are their other issues? Like the fuel pump or tank level sensor? Or is that stuff far, far over on the passenger side.

 

[phreaknes]

RE: Modifying fuel tank for exhaust clearance

Why do you want the exhaust to go straight? there's no tone difference, there no real HP gains, The flow rate increase will be minimal at most, plus your putting the hot exhaust closer to the fuel pump, pickup, and vents (yes all that stuff is on the passenger side). I think ford actually did something right by putting it as far away as posible. It can be done with a custom made setup, but it would be very expensive with very little to no gain.

I've got an 03 cobra motor in my 97 making close to 500 HP, very close to the same emissions that you have in cali and I'm using bigger size tube but the same route as stock.

 

[Sierra3]

RE: Modifying fuel tank for exhaust clearance

Mann those are some nice flowing mandrel bent pipes. Kudos to your exhaust guy. I have the pipe bender bends and it crimps the corners.. Definetly not as nice as that setup.

1995 DK Blue Lincoln Mark VIII
1998 DK Blue Chevrolet 1500 P/U
2004 BLACK/Silver HONDA CBR 600RR

 

[sleeper]

RE: Modifying fuel tank for exhaust clearance

Don't modify the gas tank. It's not worth it at all.

There really isn't much you can do to the exhaust in commiefornia. if you modified your gas tank they might give you crap about evaporative emissions, also.