Sylvie Willis
Plastic fuel tanks can become stained and discoloured over time, especially when fuel is stored in them. While it is not possible to restore the plastic to its original whiteness, there are several methods that can be used to improve the appearance of a stained plastic fuel tank. One method is to sand the surface of the tank and then polish it. Another option is to use a product like RetroBrite to restore whiteness. Painting the tank is also an option, but it is important to prepare the surface properly and be aware that the paint may not last if the tank is used to store fuel.
How to whiten plastic fuel tank
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preventative measures | Drain the fuel after every use and store the tank empty |
| Cleaning methods | Regular dish soap and hot water, paint thinner, acetone or naphtha |
| Mechanical methods | Sanding, buffing, polishing |
| Painting | Use Rustoleum gloss white paint, prepare the surface well, and let the paint cure |
| Coating | Use Caswell coating to prevent swelling from ethanol |
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What You'll Learn
Bleach as a possible solution
Bleach can be an effective solution for whitening yellowed plastic. It is important to note that bleach may weaken the plastic over time, so it is recommended to test it on a small area first. Here is a step-by-step guide on using bleach to whiten plastic:
- Prepare the Bleach Solution: Mix equal parts bleach and water in a container. For a stronger solution, you can use one tablespoon of bleach for every cup of water. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator mask, when working with bleach.
- Soak or Apply the Solution: If the plastic item can be submerged, place it in a bucket or bowl filled with the bleach solution. Let it soak until the desired level of whiteness is achieved, which can take a few hours to overnight. If the item cannot be submerged, soak paper towels in the bleach solution and cover the yellowed plastic. Re-wet the paper towels as needed to keep them moist.
- Rinse and Dry: Once the plastic has reached the desired whiteness, remove it from the solution and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Wash the item with a mild detergent to remove any residue and let it air dry completely.
- UV Light Exposure (Optional): For extra effectiveness, you can place the bleached plastic item under a UV light or in direct sunlight for a few days. This helps remove stains and eliminates the smell of bleach.
- Protect and Prevent: To prevent the plastic from turning yellow again, you can paint it with a clear acrylic varnish. This is especially recommended if the plastic item is not used for food storage.
Always exercise caution when working with bleach and follow safety guidelines. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid contact with skin and eyes.
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Wet-sanding the tank
Wet-sanding is a technique used to smooth out the surface of the plastic fuel tank and remove any scratches, discolouration, or imperfections. It is a gradual process that requires patience and a careful hand to achieve the desired results without damaging the tank. Here is a step-by-step guide to wet-sanding the plastic fuel tank:
Prepare the Tank: Before beginning the wet-sanding process, ensure that the fuel tank is clean and free from any dirt, grease, or debris. Drain the tank completely and remove it from the vehicle for easier handling.
Choose the Right Sandpaper Grit: Start with a coarse grit sandpaper, such as 150-220 grit, to remove any deep scratches or discolouration. The lower the grit number, the coarser the sandpaper, which will help cut through the imperfections faster. Always remember to use wet/dry sandpaper specifically designed for wet-sanding.
Wet-Sanding Technique: Cut circles from flat sheets of paper and spray glue them to your sander to save time and effort. Alternatively, you can wet sand by hand for more precision and control. When using the sander or sanding by hand, always sand in one direction, avoiding circular motions, to achieve a smoother finish. Use dish soap in the water for lubrication and to help reduce scratches.
Gradually Increase Grit: As you work, gradually increase the grit of the sandpaper to finer grades like 800, 1000, and 1500. This step-by-step grit increase will help you achieve a smoother and more refined finish. Take your time with each grit, ensuring that all scratches from the previous grit are removed before moving on.
Buffing and Polishing: After wet-sanding, use a buffing disc or buffing pad with a cordless drill on low speed to bring out the shine. You can also use plastic polish compounds or rubbing compounds to enhance the shine and clarity of the tank. Be cautious not to overheat the plastic, as it may start to melt.
Wet-sanding a plastic fuel tank requires patience and a methodical approach. Always remember to work in a well-ventilated area and wear the appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to safeguard against any potential hazards.
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Using a polisher
While it is impossible to restore your plastic fuel tank to its original whiteness, you can significantly improve its appearance by polishing.
First, drain the tank and scrape off the worst of the staining with a sharp blade. Next, sand the tank. Start with a coarse grit, such as 220 or 280, and work your way down to a finer grit, such as 1200 or 1500. Use wet sanding, lubricated with a mixture of water and a mild detergent.
Once you have finished sanding, it is time to polish. You can use a car polisher or a buffer, along with a polishing compound. One source recommends using a car polisher with the Dupont white compound, followed by a cleaner wax to achieve a shine. Another suggests using furniture wax as a polishing compound, while another recommends Jiff or a similar household mild abrasive surface cleaner.
Unfortunately, your hard work may be undone as soon as you start using the tank again, as the yellowing is caused by fuel permeating the plastic. One source recommends covering the tank with perforated decals to prevent this, while another suggests sealing the inside of the tank first, using Caswell epoxy.
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Painting the tank
Painting your fuel tank may be an option if you don't plan on using it to store fuel. One user suggested that they painted older faded plastics with gloss white paint, and while the paint stuck, bubbles started to form here and there. Another user suggested that preparation is key when it comes to painting your fuel tank.
If you do decide to paint your tank, make sure to let the paint cure for a while. One user suggested that you should seal the inside of the tank first, as paint is the answer to restoring the colour. They recommend using Caswell as it will not dissolve from the alcohol in the fuel supply.
Before painting, you may want to try cleaning your tank. One user suggested draining the tank, swishing it out with fresh gas, then draining it again and leaving it empty for several weeks. Another user suggested using regular dish soap and hot water to clean the tank, while another recommended paint thinner for metal tanks.
If you decide to proceed with painting your fuel tank, make sure to take the necessary precautions and follow the instructions for the paint you are using.
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Cleaning with hot water and soap
Cleaning a plastic fuel tank with hot water and soap is a straightforward process, but it requires some elbow grease and the right tools. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Drain the Tank
Start by draining the fuel tank completely. This is important for safety reasons and to ensure that no fuel remains in the tank during the cleaning process. Make sure to dispose of the drained fuel properly and in accordance with local regulations.
Step 2: Prepare the Soap Solution
Fill the tank with hot water and add a suitable soap or detergent. Regular dish soap or a mild degreaser like "Simple Green" can be effective. The amount of soap you use will depend on the size of your tank and the level of soiling. It's important to avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the plastic.
Step 3: Agitate and Soak
Once the tank is filled with the soap solution, use a tool such as a stick or a clean, firm brush to agitate the solution inside the tank. This helps to loosen and remove any built-up dirt, debris, or fuel residue. You can also try using small gravel, chain, or nuts and bolts inside the tank to help scrape away stubborn deposits. Shake and rotate the tank vigorously to ensure that all interior surfaces come into contact with the cleaning solution. Let the solution soak in the tank for a while, allowing it to further loosen any remaining contaminants.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
After agitating and soaking, thoroughly rinse the tank with clean, hot water to remove any remaining soap solution and dislodged debris. Ensure that all soap residue is removed, as it could otherwise affect fuel quality. If possible, use a high-pressure washer for a more effective rinse. Finally, dry the tank completely before refilling it with fuel. You can let it air dry or use compressed air to speed up the process.
Additional Tips:
- It is recommended to change the fuel filter after cleaning to ensure optimal performance.
- To prevent staining and maintain the appearance of your plastic fuel tank, drain the fuel after each use and consider using a fuel filter between the tank and the carb.
- For heavily soiled tanks, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or seek professional advice for more intensive cleaning methods.
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Frequently asked questions
You may be able to restore your plastic fuel tank to a light beige or cream colour by cleaning, sanding, and polishing it. First, drain the tank and swish it out with fresh gas, then drain it again and leave it empty for several weeks. Next, sand the tank, starting with 220-280 grit sandpaper and working up to 1200 or 1500 grit. Finally, polish the tank with a mild abrasive surface cleaner and polisher. You can also try using a car polisher and a polishing compound, such as the Dupont white compound.
Unfortunately, it's unlikely that your plastic fuel tank will ever be completely white again. The yellowing is caused by fuel permeating the plastic, so even if you manage to remove most of the staining, the tank will likely yellow again once it's filled with fuel.
Yes, there are a few alternatives you can try. You can try using a tank skin, which is a thin plastic shell that covers the tank, or you can try painting the tank with a paint that won't dissolve from the alcohol in the fuel supply, such as Caswell epoxy. You can also try using a product like RetroBrite to whiten the tank, but be aware that it may not stand up to storing gasoline.
