Fuel Tank Sealing
Let’s face it; replacement fuel tanks are expensive. So instead of replacing that slightly rusted OEM tank, why not seal it? Speedway Motors offers a variety of cleaners and sealing agents to get some more life out of that old tank. This article will cover the basics on how to clean, seal, and protect your tank, without spending a fortune to do so.
First things first, we need to clean it. Start by draining the fuel out, and removing the sending unit and filter assemblies, (if it has an in-tank unit), and all associated fittings. Once the tank is dry, you can knock the surface rust down by using a section of chain and sliding it around inside the tank. Make sure once the chain comes out to rinse the tank clean again. After the tank dries, you can introduce a cleaner and prep agent to seal the remaining rust and also remove the remaining contaminants. Pour half of the 1qt. bottle in and slosh it around, then dump that out. Then pour the rest of the bottle in, and spread that around much like you are rinsing the tank out, then dump it and allow the tank to dry for at least an hour before lining.
To line the tank, tape over all the holes in the tank, except for the one you will pour the sealer in. Tanks less than 12 gallons can be done with 1 quart, but tanks larger than that will require additional sealer. After pouring in the sealer, tip the tank side to side and back and forth slowly, to ensure an even coating throughout the tank. Excess sealer can then be drained and placed into a container for reuse or disposal. It is recommended that you simply turn the tank to where the excess will drain out of an opening into a pan. Once drained, you can remove the tape from the additional opening to ensure maximum airflow. Allow the tank to air dry for at least 8-24 hours
Once the tank has dried for at least 24 hours, it is safe to reassemble and place back into the vehicle for use. To browse our selection of fuel tank cleaners and sealers, or to purchase a kit with everything you will need,Click Here. And just in case you aren’t able to save your tank, we also have a variety of OEM and aftermarket style tanks available here.
One More thing: We are working with a gas tank. Flammable vapors and all, so it may be a good idea to have a fire estinguisher close by, like this 2lb Kidde Fire Extinguisher. It is a dry chemical extinguisher rated for flammable liquids and electrical fires.
