Tank Mounting problems of the 1999 Ford Ranger

1999 Ford Ranger with 130,000 miles. Leaf springs rusted out (both sides) and mounting brackets also rusted. Went to 3 autobody shops and nobody would touch it. Bumper just rusted out on both sides and spare tire well is completely rusted. Bumper and spare currently being held together with 2, 1900 lb chains. Ranger runs fine just body falling apart. Very concerned tire, bumper may become dislodged and cause further damage to myself or others. Gas tank also rusted but not leaking so far.

First failure was where leaf springs attach to frame (rear shackles) failed due to rust and put hole in truck bed. Replaced parts. Second failure is when filling tank with fuel; gas has started to run out on the ground at the gas station. Just received filler neck today to replace current rusted one. While under vehicle noticed tank strap is hanging loose not attached due to connection point rusted off (similar failure to NHTSA recall campaign #11v385000 fuel tank strap failure). Also noticed severe rust like little or no rust inhibitor was applied to frame and components. Shield above muffler is almost non-existent, frame cross member is flaking away due to rust. I am not qualified to provide full details of problems or cause but rust is becoming a safety issue with this vehicle. Contacted Ford and they say vehicle is not part of recall.

The contact owns a 1999 Ford Ranger. While parked, the contact noticed that the fuel tank had partially detached from the vehicle and was hanging down below the frame. The vehicle was taken an independent mechanic, who stated that the cross member, which held the mounting system for the fuel tank, was rusted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and suggested the vehicle be taken to an authorized dealer for diagnostics. In addition, the cross member was not available for purchase and the rear frame would have had to have been replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.