Sylvie Willis
POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer is a high-tech product formulated for metal surfaces to prevent rust, corrosion, and small fuel leaks. It is impervious to all fuels, including diesel, E10 ethanol, and high-alcohol-content fuels. The product is available in silver and has superior strength with fuel resistance. Before applying the sealer, the fuel tank must be free from plastic parts, contamination, and loose rust. It should also be cleaned with POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser and etched with POR-15 Metal Prep for optimal adhesion. The dry time for the sealer is approximately 96 hours, after which it should be fully cured and ready for a trial fill. Users have reported successful applications of the product, with some recommending gloves to avoid contact with bare skin.
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What You'll Learn
- Prepping the tank: removing plastic parts, rust, and old sealers
- Cleaning the tank: using POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser and Metal Prep (or vinegar)
- Applying POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer: following directions for a uniform coat
- Drying and curing time: allow at least 24-96 hours before a trial fill
- Alternative sealers: Caswell Tank Sealer, Evapo-Rust, and kerosene
Prepping the tank: removing plastic parts, rust, and old sealers
When prepping a fuel tank for sealing, it is important to remove any plastic parts, rust, and old sealants. This process can be tedious and time-consuming, but it is crucial to ensure the new sealer adheres properly and effectively. Here are the steps you can follow:
Removing Plastic Parts
First, identify and remove any plastic components within the fuel tank. This may include plastic tubes, hoses, or other attachments. Be gentle when handling these parts to avoid breakage. Place the removed parts in a safe location for reinstallation after the sealing process.
Cleaning the Tank
Next, it's time to clean the fuel tank thoroughly. Start by purging the tank of any remaining fuel or fumes to ensure safety during the cleaning process. Once the tank is purged, use an air-powered vacuum cleaner to remove any loose debris, standing the tank upright and working from top to bottom. Reach into the tank with a rag and long needle-nose pliers to wipe down the interior surfaces manually. You can also use water to hose down the tank from top to bottom, rinsing away debris. Be cautious, as some cleaning methods, like using a vacuum, can create static electricity.
Removing Rust and Old Sealant
Rust and old sealant removal can be challenging. One method is to use a chemical agent like Polygone to break down the adhesive in the sealant. Let it sit for an hour or even overnight, then start scraping. You can also use an air-powered tool, such as a Dremel, with a plastic bit to aid in removal. For rust, a magnetic tool can be used to attract and remove rust particles, making the process easier. However, some particles may resemble rust but not be magnetic; these can be especially challenging to remove.
Final Preparations
Once the tank is clean and free of rust and old sealant, inspect it for any remaining residue or contaminants. Ensure the tank is completely dry before proceeding with the sealing process. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen sealer for the best results.
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Cleaning the tank: using POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser and Metal Prep (or vinegar)
To clean the tank before applying the POR-15® Fuel Tank Sealer, you must first ensure that the tank is free from plastic parts, contamination, and is structurally sound. The tank should also be free from loose rust and old sealers.
The next step is to clean the tank with POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser. This step is crucial as it removes dirt, grease, wax, and other contaminants that may interfere with the restoration process. To use the cleaner, mix one quart of it with one quart of hot water. This solution is then used to remove any gum, varnish, or sludge from the inside of the tank.
After cleaning with the POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser, you can use either POR-15 Metal Prep or vinegar. The Metal Prep is used to dissolve rust, coat the tank with zinc phosphate, and etch the metal for better adhesion of the sealer. If you do not have access to Metal Prep, vinegar can be used as an alternative etching agent to prepare the surface of the metal for the sealer.
It is important to note that the POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer does not adhere well to plastic, so if your fuel tank contains any plastic components, they should be removed before proceeding with the sealing process.
Always remember to follow the directions provided with the products and take the necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves, to ensure your safety during the application process.
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Applying POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer: following directions for a uniform coat
Applying POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer effectively requires careful preparation and adherence to instructions. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving a uniform coat:
Preparation:
Before applying POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer, ensure the fuel tank is made of metal and free from plastic parts, contamination, and loose rust. Remove any old sealants or competitors' failed sealers using POR-15 Strip Gel. Clean the tank with POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser and ensure it is thoroughly dried. You can use an air hose or hairdryer to speed up the drying process. Etch the tank with POR-15 Metal Prep to enhance adhesion. It is crucial to wear gloves and protective gear to avoid direct contact with your skin.
Application Process:
- Open the can of POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer only when the tank is ready and free of rust.
- Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. The directions may advise pouring the entire can of sealer into the tank and rolling or rotating it to ensure the coating reaches all corners and crevices.
- Drain the excess sealer from the tank. This step is crucial to prevent pooling and ensure a uniform coat. You may need to roll and drain multiple times to achieve the desired result.
- Allow the sealer to dry. Depending on the environmental conditions, such as humidity, the drying time may vary.
- If needed, apply a second coat after the first layer has cured and turned slightly tacky.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing time. The curing process can take up to 96 hours for optimal results.
Tips:
- Always wear gloves and protective gear when working with POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer.
- Ensure the tank is thoroughly cleaned and dried before applying the sealer.
- Take your time and don't rush the process.
- Remember to drain excess sealer to avoid pooling and ensure a uniform coat.
- If you have pinholes in your tank, tape them before applying the sealer.
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Drying and curing time: allow at least 24-96 hours before a trial fill
When using POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer, it is important to allow sufficient drying and curing time before adding fuel to the tank. The recommended curing time for the product is 96 hours, or 4 days, to ensure that the sealer has fully bonded with the tank.
While the product may appear dry to the touch within 24 hours, it is important to allow the full curing time for the best results. This will ensure that the sealer has properly adhered to the tank and will provide a strong, impervious barrier against rust, corrosion, and leaks.
During the curing process, the solvents in the sealer evaporate, allowing the sealer to harden and form a durable coating. This process takes time, and rushing it can compromise the integrity of the seal. Therefore, it is crucial to wait the full 96 hours before adding fuel to the tank.
In some cases, users have reported successful results with shorter curing times. However, it is always best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the seal.
Once the curing process is complete, you can proceed with a trial fill, adding a small amount of fuel to the tank to check for any leaks. If leaks are detected, you may need to apply an additional coat of the sealer and allow for the full curing time again.
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Alternative sealers: Caswell Tank Sealer, Evapo-Rust, and kerosene
When it comes to alternative sealers, there are a few options available, each with its own unique advantages. One notable product is the Caswell Tank Sealer, which is specifically designed for sealing fuel and oil tanks. This sealer is a "phenol novolac epoxy", a new breed of chemical-resistant material that can withstand permanent immersion in harsh solvents, fuels, and oils. Its higher bond strength means it adheres better to rough, rusty surfaces, and it is also resistant to modern high-ethanol content fuels. This makes it an excellent choice for sealing steel and fibreglass tanks.
Another option is Evapo-Rust, a rust removal and inhibition system. Evapo-Rust easily removes rust without the need for scrubbing or sanding and provides long-lasting protection from future rusting for up to a year. While it is an effective solution for removing rust from various components, it is not specifically marketed as a tank sealer.
Kerosene itself does not act as a sealer, but it is worth noting that some individuals have discussed sealing kerosene lantern tanks. In these cases, the focus is typically on repairing leaks or preventing rust, with suggestions including the use of a fuel tank sealer or solder, which was likely the original construction method for the tank.
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Frequently asked questions
POR 15 Fuel Tank Sealer is a paint-like product used to seal rusty and leaky metal gas tanks. It is impervious to all fuels, including diesel, E10 ethanol, and high-alcohol content fuels.
Before applying the sealer, ensure your fuel tank is free from plastic parts, contamination, and loose rust. Clean the tank with POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser and etch with POR-15 Metal Prep for the best adhesion.
The dry time for POR 15 Fuel Tank Sealer is approximately 24-36 hours. However, it is recommended to allow 96 hours of curing time before filling the tank with fuel to ensure a strong bond.
Yes, POR 15 Fuel Tank Sealer can be used to seal the inside of metal fuel tanks. Ensure that you follow the preparation instructions carefully and thoroughly dry the tank before applying the sealer.
