My tank which had never been moved since leaving the factory only had pads at the bottom of the tank. It was hard to tell exactly what they were made of...a little like rubber and a little like leather. Not at all like tar paper. I replaced them with solid neoprene 1/16" thick. No trouble with straps or nuts. I retained the bottom fuel line connection.

Good luck!
Jon


~ Jon
1952 1/2 ton with 1959 235 | T5 with 3.07 rear end