I ask because mine is rusted and chunks of metal rust have been falling off ever since I started treating it with rust inhibiting/penetrating oils a few months ago.

I dropped the fuel tank to change the sending unit and some chunks fell off. Some as thick as 2/8 of an inch.

Should I worry?

 

Damn... Not sure how thick but that's not good... Land on a rock in that weakened spot and you may have mess on your hands.

 

That is insane! It's not super thick but normally I wouldn't worry but that does seem like a lot

 

thanks for the responses guys. when i change the differential fluid next, i'll try to take some measurements.

here are some more rusty pictures of the sending unit. you can see on the reverse side of it the rust discoloration which i think points to where it was leaking from.

i have to say, wearing a face shield saved my eyes and face and head from all the rust, dirt and sand, grease, and sprays from hurting me. i highly recommend it to anyone else. $13 only. that and a drywall mask.

 

Mine is about the same. The best thing to do is grind it down and refinish. They are thick heavy bastards so you might be okay. If not, replacements aren't too expensive.

 

I'd be more worried about the differential cover. It's MUCH thinner metal and looks like it has a fair amount of rust on it as well.