I'm interested at s to how the line connected to the tank then.
If the tank is empty, it could be the best time to take the straps out and remove the tank for an inspection.
If it's the correct tank you could get a new correct sender and hook it up the way it was intended... plugging the hole that the rigged-up gas line was connected to.
The picture I sent is from a catalog where you can also find all of the correct parts you need at good prices. I used them a lot for my '59 restoration.
Good luck.
Jerry
