Ameer Randolph
Fuel tank varnish is a common problem for vehicle owners, especially those restoring old or rare models. The varnish forms when fuel is left sitting in the tank for long periods, causing the fuel to degrade and turn into a gummy, varnish-like substance that can clog filters and cause engine issues. Removing the varnish is a necessary step in restoring or maintaining vehicle performance, and there are several methods that can be employed to do so.
Characteristics and Values Table for Fuel Tank Varnish Removal
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Varnish Removal Methods | Lacquer thinner, acetone, B-12, isopropyl alcohol, kerosene, Sea Foam, Gasohol, steam pressure washer, power washer, muriatic acid, phoshoric acid, carb cleaner, brake clean |
| Tools | Garden hose, screwdriver, chain, nuts, fuel filter, glass sediment filter, gasoline fuel tank pump, SEAFOAM engine cleaner, inline fuel filter, carry-on tank |
| Time | 45 minutes to a few days |
| Cost | $1.50 to $130 |
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What You'll Learn
Using lacquer thinner
Lacquer thinner is an effective way to remove fuel tank varnish. It is a cheaper alternative to acetone and produces the same results. It is important to note that gasoline and E85 will not cut varnish.
To use lacquer thinner, start by pouring one gallon of it into the fuel tank. Use a broom handle to stir it around and ensure it coats the inside of the tank. Let it sit for a couple of days, sloshing it around occasionally. Then, drain the lacquer thinner and fill the tank with gas.
It is recommended to repeat this process a second time to ensure that all the varnish is removed. After using the lacquer thinner, some suggest cleaning the tank with a steam cleaner and letting it dry.
Lacquer thinner can also be used as part of a mixture. Berryman's B12 recipe, for example, includes lacquer thinner, acetone, and a tiny bit of methanol. This solution can be used to dissolve varnish and keep the fuel system clean.
When working with lacquer thinner and other chemicals, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation.
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Removing old fuel
If the tank is off the vehicle, simply roll it around and let it work for a day or two, then roll it some more and dump it. Repeat this process a second time. If the tank is still on the vehicle, you can try using a garden hose until the water runs out fairly clean. Alternatively, you can try shaking the tank to dislodge the old fuel.
Once the old fuel has been removed, you can move on to the next step of cleaning the varnish from the tank. This can be done using a variety of solvents, including acetone, lacquer thinner, isopropyl alcohol, or commercial products such as Sea Foam.
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Using acetone
To use acetone for fuel tank varnish removal, follow these steps:
- Ensure the fuel tank is made of compatible materials. Acetone can be used on metal tanks, but it may damage certain types of plastic. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first if you are unsure.
- If the tank is still connected to the engine, drain the fuel and disconnect any fuel lines. If possible, remove the tank from the vehicle to work in a well-ventilated area.
- Ventilate the area by opening doors and windows, and consider using a fan to improve airflow.
- Pour acetone into the fuel tank, ensuring that the varnish buildup is completely covered. You may need to roll the tank around to ensure the acetone coats all surfaces.
- Allow the acetone to soak for several hours or even a day or two. The longer it soaks, the more effective it will be at dissolving the varnish.
- After soaking, use a brush or a clean rag to scrub away any remaining varnish residue. You can also add some gravel or glass marbles into the tank and shake it to help loosen and remove the varnish.
- Drain the acetone and varnish residue from the tank. Be sure to dispose of the acetone and varnish mixture responsibly, following local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal.
- Rinse the tank with clean water to remove any remaining acetone and varnish residue.
- If desired, you can use a fuel tank liner or coating to help prevent future varnish buildup and protect the tank.
It is important to note that acetone is a strong solvent, and it may not be suitable for all fuel tank materials. Always test on a small area first and follow safety precautions when working with this chemical. Additionally, acetone is flammable, so ensure all ignition sources are eliminated before use.
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Using Sea Foam
Sea Foam Motor Treatment is an effective way to remove fuel tank varnish. It works by reliquefying gummy varnish deposits, allowing them to pass harmlessly through the fuel system.
To use Sea Foam Motor Treatment, start by removing as much old fuel as possible, as varnish will have settled at the bottom of the tank. Next, add a can of Sea Foam to the remaining fuel, followed by a gallon of fresh fuel. The addition of fresh fuel helps to create a greater ratio of fresh fuel with highly volatile ignition vapour.
After adding the Sea Foam and fresh fuel, start the engine and let it run for around eight minutes. This allows the Sea Foam to pass through the carburettor circuits. Then, shut off the engine and let the vehicle sit for at least overnight, or up to three days if possible. The longer it sits, the better the Sea Foam can work to break down the varnish.
After the vehicle has sat, add another gallon of fresh fuel and run the engine for five to eight minutes to heat up. Then, take the vehicle for a short drive to create more upper engine heat and compression. It is important to note that Sea Foam works better at higher temperatures, so if possible, leave the fuel tank in direct sunlight before use.
Finally, dispose of the fuel and Sea Foam mixture and add a cleaning dose of Sea Foam Motor Treatment to a low tank of fuel (a full can in 2-3 gallons of fuel). Drive until the tank is almost empty before refilling. This will help to clean out any remaining varnish in the fuel system.
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Cleaning rust with muriatic acid
To remove fuel tank varnish, some suggest using B-12, a mixture of lacquer thinner and acetone, or isopropyl alcohol. Others recommend E-85, which effectively removes old tank liners.
Muriatic acid is a toxic substance that can be used to remove rust from surfaces. It is important to note that this acid is so corrosive that it can cause the loss of material if used incorrectly. When using muriatic acid, it is recommended to perform the task outdoors, as the fumes can affect anything within 6 feet of the acid.
To use muriatic acid for rust removal, it is recommended to submerge the rusty object in the acid solution and let it sit overnight. The next day, flip the object to expose the other side to the acid and let it sit for another night. After removing the object from the acid, it is crucial to neutralize the acid with a strong alkaline solution, such as lye or sodium metasilicate. This step helps to prevent further rusting by forming a neutral salt. Finally, thoroughly rinse the object with clean water, preferably de-ionized, to remove any remaining acid or chloride ions, which can accelerate rust formation.
It is important to note that muriatic acid may not be suitable for certain materials, such as steel, as it can cause pinhole formation. Additionally, some post-treatment steps may be necessary to prevent flash rusting and severe rusting later on. These steps can include more than just flushing with water, drying, and oiling.
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Frequently asked questions
A good way to remove fuel tank varnish is to use acetone. First, remove as much of the old fuel as possible, then pour in the acetone and shake the tank until the varnish is dissolved.
Yes, there are several alternatives to acetone. Lacquer thinner, B-12, isopropyl alcohol, muriatic acid, methylene chloride, and Seafom engine cleaner are all suggested alternatives.
To prevent fuel tank varnish, always add B-12 to your gas to help keep the fuel system clean.
Fuel tank varnish can vary in consistency from a thin layer coating the inside of the tank to thick, clumpy mud.
