I am hoping to be able to go with a stock 78 tank because I have a stainless skid plate on it now. I know I'll have to get a 78 filler neck and hoses to complete the connection. Just looking at the two tanks, I can't see why that would be a big deal. This is the third time I have completely restored this Jeep. I bought it new in 1977. The tub has been fiberglass from 1981 when the floor boards rusted away. I am currently replacing the fiberglass front end with steel because the quality of the early fiberglass parts weren't that good and has looked pretty shabby from about 1985. I don't mind if I have to relocate the filler neck hole and plastic shield a little, if that is going to be necessary. I'm just tired of the gasoline showers and holding the nozzle upside down every time I fill up the tank and I see no reason to put up with it any longer.
My problem is that I don't know anyone that has a 78 to look at for reference and the Big Parts guys either don't know anything about early Jeeps or just don't want to take the time to help. I built this thing from the ground up twice since 1977, so how difficult can it be to determine if the gas tanks are the same except for the fillers? I guess in the absence of anyone that has made this swap, I'll just have to wing it. I don't want to, but if I have to I will.