As I was looking at the pictures, all I kept thinking about was what would have happened if you had just poured some fresh gas in the tank and tried to run it as is? Good thing you have the common sense to check it first. I also would be interested in seeing the inside of the tank when you open it up. I'm curious about the part that went "clunck." LOL
Anyways good luck and your new ride looks to be a pretty sweet one. I wonder how long it had been setting before you got it. Have you figured out a reason the previous owner gave up on it?
Keith