Mercedes Mullins
Fuel tanks from the 1950s can be restored, but the process can be challenging and time-consuming. The restoration process involves cleaning the tank, removing rust and debris, sealing the tank to prevent future corrosion, and painting the exterior. One of the biggest issues with old fuel tanks is rust, which can cause petrol leaks and contaminate the petrol with rust particles. To clean the tank, one must drain the fuel, remove fuel gauge wiring, pipes, and ventilation, and use a variety of cleaning solutions and methods such as steam cleaning, degreasers, or gravel and strong cleaners. After cleaning, the tank must be dried and sealed with a suitable sealer to prevent future rust. Some sources recommend using a specialised kit for sealing, such as the KBS Coatings or POR 15 kit. The restoration process can be dangerous and requires proper safety equipment and knowledge.
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning the tank: Use a strong cleaner, gravel, and a leaf blower
To clean the inside of an old fuel tank, you will need to remove any loose debris, rust, and scale. Start by siphoning out any old fuel. Then, to get rid of the remaining gunk, you can try a few different methods. One option is to use a mixture of gravel and a strong cleaner, such as white vinegar, Seafoam, or muriatic acid. Plug the bottom of the tank and shake it gently each day. You could also try running a tractor in low gear and reverse for 15-20 minutes with a gallon of muriatic acid and a small chain inside the tank.
Another method is to use a leaf blower to dry out the inside of the tank. First, inspect the inside of the tank via the fuel level sender bung with a flashlight to ensure it is as clean as possible. Then, fire up your leaf blower. Remember to always wear eye protection when performing maintenance tasks.
After using a cleaner or a leaf blower, rinse the tank thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before refilling with new fuel. You can also slosh a gallon of diesel fuel around and drain if the tank is clean.
Be very gentle when wrenching on any fittings, especially the outlet fitting, as mechanical or chemical applications can result in leaks in old tanks.
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Sealing the tank: Seal all orifices with duct tape and use a sealer
Sealing the tank is a crucial step in the restoration process. Before sealing, it is important to ensure that the tank is thoroughly cleaned and dried. This can be done through steam cleaning, using a leaf blower, or placing the tank in the sun or running a reversed vacuum hose into it for an hour.
Once the tank is clean and dry, it's time to seal the orifices with duct tape. Seal all openings except for the filler with duct tape, including the fuel gauge sender aperture and fuel pipe connections. Make sure the tape is firmly adhered to prevent leakage during the sealing process.
After taping over the orifices, it is time to apply the sealer. For this step, you can use a specialised sealer like the Gold Standard Tank Sealer from KBS Coatings or the POR 15 system, which is designed to resist high levels of ethanol in American fuel. Before pouring the sealer into the tank, be sure to mix the contents thoroughly to ensure any settled material is incorporated into the solution.
Once the sealer is mixed, pour the entire contents into the tank. Then, tilt, jolt, and spin the tank to ensure the sealer coats all interior surfaces and to prevent pooling. This step is crucial to ensure that the sealer effectively neutralises any remaining rust and creates a protective barrier.
After sealing, allow the tank to sit undisturbed for the recommended time specified by the sealer manufacturer. This will ensure that the sealer cures properly and forms a durable barrier against future corrosion. Once cured, carefully remove the duct tape and inspect the tank for any signs of remaining rust or corrosion. If necessary, repeat the cleaning and sealing process until the tank is fully restored.
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Removing rust: Use rust remover, Ospho, or sandpaper
Restoring a fuel tank from the 1950s involves removing rust and corrosion that may have accumulated over the years. Here are some methods to remove rust using rust remover, Ospho, or sandpaper:
Using Rust Remover
A chemical rust remover can be an effective way to dissolve rust and restore the metal surface. One such product is the WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover Soak, which is non-toxic, biodegradable, and effective on both large and small items. This product quickly dissolves rust and restores tools, equipment, and surfaces to bare metal without chipping, scraping, or scrubbing. It is safe to use on most metals and does not harm paint, gaskets, or other surrounding parts. To use this product, simply soak the rusty parts in the solution for 1-3 hours for light rust or overnight for heavy rust.
Ospho
Ospho, or phosphoric acid, is a rust-converting compound that can be applied to rusty surfaces to stop rust and prevent further corrosion. It reacts with rust, converting it into a black protective coating that can be painted over. Ospho does not require the removal of rust before application, making it a convenient option.
Sandpaper
For lighter rust buildup, sandpaper or steel wool can be used to sand the surface of the metal, removing rust and flaking paint. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the rust and finish with a finer grit to smooth out any grooves left by the coarser paper. This method may be more labour-intensive but can be effective for smaller areas or when used in combination with chemical treatments. For heavier rust buildup, an electric drill outfitted with a wire brush or a grinder can be used, but care must be taken to avoid damaging the metal surface.
It is important to note that before using any rust removal method, all fasteners, such as screws, should be removed, and the surface should be cleaned of any loose debris, rust, or scale. Additionally, always wear proper protection, such as goggles, rubber gloves, and long sleeves, when working with rust removal products and tools.
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Painting the tank: Use a thick coating of chassis paint
When restoring an old fuel tank, painting the outside of the tank is an important step. Chassis paint is a great option for this, as it provides a thick and resilient coating that will protect the tank from the elements. Here are some detailed instructions on how to paint the tank using chassis paint:
First, you'll need to prepare the tank by cleaning it thoroughly. This includes removing any fuel gauge wiring, fuel pipes, filler neck pipes, and ventilation pipes. Be sure to drain the fuel safely and dispose of it properly or save it for cleaning purposes. Once everything is disconnected, you can begin the cleaning process. Use a strong cleaner and a hose to rinse out the tank, making sure to remove all traces of dirt, grease, and debris. You may need to shake the tank and rinse multiple times to ensure it is completely clean.
Next, you'll want to prepare the surface of the tank for painting. This may involve sanding or scraping any rust or corrosion that is present, especially if the tank is made of bare steel. It is important to get rid of all the rust, as it can act as a catalyst and speed up the fuel breakdown rate. You can use a rust remover or a rust converter like Ospho to treat the affected areas. Be sure to wear gloves and a respirator during this process to protect yourself from any chemicals.
Once the tank is clean and free of rust, it's time to apply the chassis paint. Make sure you choose a paint that is suitable for fuel tanks and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Brush on the paint evenly and thoroughly, ensuring that you cover all surfaces and pay extra attention to any nooks and crannies. The paint should be thick enough to provide a resilient coating, but be careful not to apply it too heavily in one area to avoid dripping.
After the paint has been applied, allow it ample time to dry and cure. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time. Once it is dry, inspect the tank to ensure that the paint has been applied evenly and that there are no areas that require touch-ups. If necessary, apply a second coat of paint for added protection and an even finish.
Finally, reassemble the fuel tank by reconnecting all the pipes, wiring, and components that were removed earlier. Be sure to use new hose clips and replace any imperfect pipes. Check carefully for leaks and ensure that all connections are secure before refilling the tank with fresh fuel.
By following these steps and using a thick coating of chassis paint, you can effectively restore and protect your old 1950s fuel tank.
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Safety: Dispose of old fuel and wear protective gear
When restoring old fuel tanks, safety must be a priority. Old fuel, especially if contaminated, must be disposed of properly. It is highly flammable and toxic, and can cause serious environmental damage if poured down the sink, onto the ground, or into a storm drain. It is illegal to dispose of old fuel in this way. Instead, you should siphon the fuel into a suitable container and dispose of it at a specialised facility. Some fire stations accept old fuel and send it for proper recycling. Alternatively, auto repair garages may take it off your hands if it is free from contaminants.
Before beginning any work on the fuel tank, ensure you are wearing appropriate protective gear. Safety harnesses, climbing pants, and protective aprons are all recommended for fuel tank restoration. Safety glasses and gloves are also essential to protect your eyes and skin from any chemicals or debris. A respirator is also advised to avoid inhaling fumes or particles.
When working with old fuel tanks, it is crucial to be cautious and follow safety protocols. Work in a well-ventilated area and keep away from any heat sources or open flames. Smoking should be avoided, and it is important to wash your hands thoroughly after handling any chemicals or fuel.
Before disposing of old fuel, check with your local hazardous waste management facility, as rules for disposal may vary by state and locality. Old fuel can be recycled or disposed of at specialised facilities, and it is important to follow the correct procedures to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
By prioritising safety and following the recommended steps for disposing of old fuel and wearing protective gear, you can effectively restore old 1950s fuel tanks while minimising risks to yourself and the environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Restoring a 1950s fuel tank can be a complex process and it is important to be thorough. First, drain the tank and remove the fuel gauge wiring, fuel pipes, filler neck pipe, and ventilation pipes. Next, clean the tank to remove any rust and debris. This can be done with steam cleaning, a strong cleaner, or gravel. Then, seal the tank's orifices with duct tape and use a degreaser to remove old fuel and residue. Rinse the tank and apply a tank sealer to prevent future rust. Finally, paint the tank and reconnect the pipes and wiring.
There are a variety of products available for fuel tank restoration. For cleaning and sealing, you can use a KBS Coatings kit, which includes a sealer, rust remover, and metal etch/cleaner solutions. To seal the tank, you can use Gold Standard Tank Sealer or the POR 15 system, which is compatible with modern petrol. For rust removal, Ospho brand rust converter is also recommended.
To clean a rusty fuel tank, you can use a variety of methods. Steam cleaning is one option, or you can spray a strong cleaner into the tank while wearing protective gear. Another method is to put gravel inside the tank, seal it, and shake it vigorously. You can also use a leaf blower to dry out the inside of the tank. After cleaning, it is important to thoroughly rinse the tank to remove any residue.
