How big is the gas tank on a 1981 Ford F150?
The typical fuel tank on most 1981 Ford F-150 pickups is 25 gallons (about 95 liters). Exact capacity can vary slightly depending on bed length, engine, and drivetrain, so verify the specifics for your truck if you need precise figures.
Tank sizes by configuration
The following outlines common factory configurations from that year and their approximate tank capacities, noting that slight differences may exist by engine and bed length.
- Standard short-bed, regular cab: about 25 gallons (95 L)
- Long-bed or extended cab models: typically around 25–28 gallons (95–106 L)
- Certain 4x4 or specialty configurations: capacity can vary slightly beyond the baseline
In practice, most 1981 F-150s use a 25-gallon tank as the baseline, with small variations depending on the exact configuration. If you’re restoring or purchasing a specific truck, confirm the exact capacity for that build.
How to verify the exact capacity on your truck
Because Ford offered various options across the 1981 F-series, the exact tank size for a given truck should be confirmed via official documentation or physical markings. The fuel tank capacity is typically listed on the original window sticker or in the owner's manual, and some vehicles have an imprint or label on the fuel tank itself. If you have access to the VIN, you can pull a build sheet or factory specifications that specify the tank size for that exact configuration.
- Check the driver’s door jamb data sticker and the owner's manual for the listed fuel capacity.
- Inspect the fuel tank for any stamped or labeled capacity information.
- Use the VIN to obtain the original build sheet or Ford’s specification data for that configuration.
- Consult a Ford classic-truck resource or dealership if you cannot locate documentation.
Steps to verify the exact capacity on your truck:
Summary
The 1981 Ford F-150 typically features a 25-gallon fuel tank, with slight variations depending on bed length, drivetrain, and options. For a precise figure on a specific truck, consult the door-jamb sticker, owner’s manual, build sheet, or VIN-based resources to confirm the exact capacity.
