Rajan Wilcox
Painting a plastic fuel tank can be a challenging task due to the risk of fuel vapours permeating through the walls and causing paint bubbles. However, with proper preparation and the right materials, it is possible to achieve a successful paint job. This includes thoroughly cleaning, sanding, and priming the tank before applying paint and a clear coat. Some people have had success using specific products like Krylon paint, fibreglass resin, and epoxy liner, while others have opted for custom tank covers. It is important to note that some paints, like enamel and lacquer, may not form a strong chemical bond with the plastic, so a catalyzed urethane paint is recommended for a lasting finish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Catalyzed urethane paint, Epoxy liner, Caswell, Acrylic urethane paints, Fibreglass resin, Latex 2000, SEM Adhesion Promoter, SEM Flexible Primer, Krylon paint, Car paint, Gloss oil paint |
| Preparation | Empty the tank, Degrease, Remove decals, Sand, Prime, Apply filler, Dry thoroughly |
| Common issues | Swelling, Bubbling, Cracking, Paint not adhering |
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What You'll Learn
Sanding and priming the tank
Sanding and priming a plastic fuel tank is crucial for achieving a professional and durable paint finish. Here are the steps you should follow:
Sanding the Tank
Start by thoroughly cleaning the tank with a mild detergent or a specially formulated cleaner to remove any dirt, grease, or residue that could affect paint adhesion. You can use a degreaser to remove any sticky residue left behind after removing decals. Once the tank is clean, dry it completely before proceeding to the next step.
Next, use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the entire surface of the tank. This step helps create a strong base for the paint layers by promoting adhesion between the plastic surface and the primer. Be gentle during this process to avoid creating deep scratches that may show through the paint later. If there are any scratches, dents, or imperfections, use a suitable plastic filler to repair them, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the rest of the tank.
Priming the Tank
Select a high-quality primer specifically designed for plastic surfaces and compatible with your chosen paint type. Look for primers labelled for automotive use or plastic surfaces. Before applying the primer, ensure the tank is clean and free from any contaminants.
Apply a thin and even coat of primer to the entire surface of the tank, following the manufacturer's instructions regarding drying times between coats. You may need multiple coats, depending on the primer and your tank's condition. Inspect the primed surface carefully for any imperfections, such as bubbles, rough spots, or uneven areas. If you find any flaws, address them by lightly sanding or applying additional primer as needed until you achieve a smooth and flawless base for painting.
By properly sanding and priming your plastic fuel tank, you will enhance the paint's adhesion, durability, and vibrancy, resulting in a professional and long-lasting finish.
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Using a quality paint
Painting a plastic fuel tank can be a tricky process due to the risk of bubbling caused by fuel vapours permeating through the paint. However, with careful preparation and the use of quality materials, it is possible to achieve a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Before painting, it is essential to thoroughly clean the tank to remove any dirt, grease, or old fuel residue. This can be done by washing the tank with a suitable solvent such as acetone or a dish soap and comet mix, ensuring that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. Once the tank is clean, it should be dried completely before proceeding to the next steps.
The next step is to remove any existing decals or stickers and sand the tank surface to create a smooth base for the paint. It is important to use the correct grit size for sanding, such as P400 or P800, to effectively remove imperfections while maintaining the desired shape of the tank. After sanding, it is crucial to degrease the tank again to ensure a clean surface for painting.
When it comes to using a quality paint, it is recommended to start by applying a high-quality primer specifically designed for plastic surfaces. This primer layer will help the paint adhere better to the plastic and create a more durable finish. After priming, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time before proceeding to the next step.
For the paint itself, choose a reputable brand known for its durability and adhesion to plastic surfaces. It is important to use as little paint as possible to avoid cracking and checking. Apply the paint carefully and in thin coats, following the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
Finally, once the paint has dried, it is essential to protect it with a clear coat. This additional layer will provide extra durability and help prevent fuel vapour permeation. Again, choose a high-quality clear coat designed for plastic surfaces and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Sealing the tank
Sealing a plastic fuel tank can be a tricky process, and there are several methods you can use. Firstly, it is important to identify the material of your tank. Gas tanks are typically made from various materials, including wood, plastic, rubber, concrete, and metals, but not polyethylene. You can identify the material by checking the markings moulded into the tank for recycling purposes.
One popular method to seal a plastic fuel tank is to use an epoxy liner, such as Caswell Epoxy. This product has received positive reviews for its effectiveness in sealing rusted and damaged tanks, and it is compatible with ethanol-based fuels. It is designed to bond with most materials and can be used to seal holes and other damage. Before applying an epoxy coating, it is essential to prepare the surface by removing any contaminants. This can be done by pouring a solvent such as acetone or lacquer thinner into the tank, rotating it to coat the interior, and then disposing of the contaminated solution.
Another option for sealing a plastic fuel tank is to use a plastic weld. This method involves using a soldering iron to melt the plastic and seal any cracks or leaks. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area when using this method, as the fumes can be dangerous. You can also use strips of plastic shaved from another source as filler material to help reinforce the weld.
For smaller cracks or leaks, super glue can be an effective sealant. However, it can be challenging to work with, as it dries quickly and can smear or leave permanent marks on the plastic surface. It is important to work carefully and practice before attempting to seal the tank.
Other tank sealers such as RedKote, Kreem, and POR-15 are also available, but their effectiveness on plastic tanks may be limited. These products are more commonly used to recoat metal tanks, and they may not adhere well to plastic surfaces.
Finally, it is important to consider the fuel type when sealing a plastic fuel tank. Ethanol-based fuels can cause swelling and bubbling in some tanks, leading to cracks and other damage. Coating the inside of the tank with an epoxy liner can help prevent these issues, but it is crucial to allow adequate curing time before refilling the tank with fuel.
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Removing decals
One popular method for removing decals is to use heat. A hairdryer or heat gun can be used to gently warm the sticker, softening the adhesive and allowing it to be slowly peeled away. This process may need to be repeated several times to fully remove the sticker. Once the decal is removed, there may be residual adhesive left behind. This can be tackled with a product such as Goo Gone, WD-40, or nail polish remover (acetone). These products can be applied and then wiped away with a cloth, eraser, or plastic razor blade.
Another method for removing decals is to use a pressure washer, which can be an effective way to remove stickers without damaging the paintwork. However, it is important to be cautious when using a pressure washer, as too much pressure can damage the surface. An alternative tool for removing stickers is a "'crud thug'", which is a device with a rubber wheel that spins the sticker off in layers without affecting the paint.
For particularly stubborn stickers, it may be necessary to use a combination of these methods. It is worth noting that some sources advise against using metal razor blades, as these can easily damage the paintwork. Instead, plastic razor blades are recommended as a safer and cheaper option. With patience and the right tools, removing decals from a plastic fuel tank can be a straightforward process.
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Dyes and pigments
Painting a plastic fuel tank can be challenging due to the outgassing of fumes through the plastic pores, which can cause bubbling in the paint. However, there are several methods and products that can be used to achieve a successful paint job.
One popular method is to use Rit Dye, which is typically used for colouring clothing. This process involves cleaning the tank, removing stickers and any components that should not be coloured, and then submerging the tank in a mixture of boiled water, Rit Dye, and aluminium foil. While this method can dye the interior of the tank, it does not affect the fuel and can be washed out. It is important to note that Rit Dye may work better on certain types of plastics, so testing on a small area first is recommended.
Another approach is to use a flexible primer designed for automotive bumpers, followed by a paint job. This method requires thorough cleaning and degreasing of the tank, sanding to remove any imperfections, and the use of a plastic primer on exposed plastic areas. A filler is then applied, followed by sanding and the application of colour coats. The process is finished with a clear coat.
To prevent bubbling, some people suggest using fibreglass resin mixed with a pigment of choice. This method requires sanding and polishing to achieve a smooth finish. Additionally, coating the interior of the tank with an epoxy liner or fuel tank sealer can help address the outgassing issue and improve paint adhesion.
For Triumph polymer tanks, modern water-based automotive paints are recommended as they are fuel and solvent-resistant, less expensive, and environmentally friendly. However, it is important to note that only the base colour coat is typically water-based, while other layers, such as the clear coat, are still solvent-based.
When working with paints, it is important to consider the type of paint and its properties. Enamel and lacquer paints, for example, are a solution of pigment and binder in a solvent, while catalyzed urethanes form an irreversible chemical bond, resulting in better resistance to elements and solvents.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can paint a plastic fuel tank. However, it is important to note that the paint may not last long due to fuel vapors permeating through the walls and causing it to bubble and peel.
It is recommended to use a catalyzed urethane paint for painting plastic fuel tanks as it forms a chemical bond with the surface, resulting in a more durable finish. You can also use a quality primer and paint designed for plastic surfaces.
To paint a plastic fuel tank, start by emptying and drying the tank. Remove any decals and sand the surface to create a fur texture. Prime the surface with a plastic primer, apply filler, and sand again. Finally, apply the paint and finish with a clear coat. It is important to follow the specific instructions for the paint and primer you have chosen.
