How big is the gas tank on a 1972 Ford F100?
The standard fuel tank on most 1972 Ford F-100 pickups was about 20 gallons, with some configurations offering a larger extended-range option in the mid-to-high 20s of gallons depending on bed length and equipment.
Tank sizes and what affected them
In 1972 Ford offered different bed lengths and optional fuel-system configurations. The numbers below reflect common factory setups for that year.
- Standard tank: approximately 20 gallons (about 75–76 liters).
- Extended-range option: typically mid-20s to high-20s gallons (roughly 24–28 gallons, depending on bed length and equipment).
Conclusion: While 20 gallons was standard, the actual capacity could be higher if your truck had the extended-range fuel-tank option or a different bed length. To know for sure, check the factory build data on your particular vehicle.
How to verify your truck's tank capacity
To confirm the exact tank size for a specific 1972 F-100, use these verification steps.
- Inspect the fuel tank for stamped or embossed capacity markings near the filler neck or on the tank itself.
- Check the original build sheet, door jamb sticker, or dealer-issued documentation for listed fuel capacity.
- Use the VIN to look up the factory configuration in Ford's archives or reputable classic-truck databases, which can indicate the fuel-tank option.
Conclusion: Because capacity varied by bed length and optional equipment, the most reliable method is to confirm via the vehicle’s records or direct markings on the tank.
Summary
For a 1972 Ford F-100, plan for a standard 20-gallon tank, with potential for a larger 24–28 gallon extended-range tank on certain configurations. Always verify with the specific vehicle data to be sure.
How much is a 1972 Ford F100 worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $23,240 for a 1972 Ford F-100 Custom in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1972 Ford F-100 Custom? The highest selling price of a 1972 Ford F-100 Custom at auction over the last three years was $192,500.
How big is the gas tank on a 1973 Ford F100?
Gas Tank - AFT - 19 gallon - without Emissions - 1973-79 Ford Truck.
How big is the fuel tank on a 1972 Ford F100?
Fuel Tank In-Cab 19.5 Gallon Without EEC For 1961-1972 Ford F-100 Pickup Truck.
Why do old Ford trucks have two gas tanks?
Old Ford trucks have two gas tanks primarily to increase the vehicle's driving range, which was especially useful for towing and long trips where fuel stations were scarce. The dual-tank system also helped with weight distribution, placing fuel weight in smaller, distributed tanks rather than one large one, and offered a reserve for emergencies.
Benefits of dual gas tanks
- Increased driving range: The most significant benefit was the ability to carry more fuel, extending the driving distance between fill-ups. This was particularly important for work trucks that towed heavy loads, as they consume more fuel.
- Weight distribution: Placing two smaller tanks under the bed, one toward the front and one toward the back, helped distribute the weight of the fuel more evenly across the chassis. This could improve the truck's balance and traction.
- Emergency reserve: The second tank served as a reserve. If the main tank ran empty, the driver could simply switch to the second tank, which could prevent them from being stranded, especially in remote areas.
- Design and space management: It was often easier for manufacturers to fit two smaller tanks into the available space than one large, single tank. This allowed for more flexibility in the design and packaging of the vehicle.
