| woodiewagon46 | -- 07-17-2018 @ 3:33 PM |
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The car that I'm working on is a Model A but the issue can affect V-8s, so I'm asking for advice. The gas tank was sealed in about 1972 or so. Last time the car was driven was 1984 and sat. I drained the gas on Monday and got a combination of rotten gas and sludge. I have read that the "old type" tank sealant will be attacked by modern gas. I need to have the tank "boiled out" but that will not remove all the old sealer. Also found out that the new type sealer will not adhere to the old sealer. I'm in a quandary, can't get the old sealer out and the new sealer won't stick and clog the gas lines. Any advice.
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| TomO | -- 07-18-2018 @ 6:47 AM |
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The old style yellow tank sealer responds to MEK or commercial paint removers. Take it to a radiator repair (not just a replacement shop) or a commercial paint stripper like Redi Strip, and they can clean it for you. Make sure that you have new coating available when you get the tank back as you have just a short time before it rusts again. Tom
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| supereal | -- 07-18-2018 @ 8:56 AM |
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As you know, the gas tank on a Model A forms the upper half of the cowl and, as such, is virtually impossible to remove or replace. The interior coating of the tank is a lead based substance called "terne" which is thick enough to withstand most attacks on the steel part. Later, post Model A tanks still have the coating, but considerably less effective. In most cases, the deposit of road grime on the top of the tanks became a problem when moist and created pinholes. Trying to reseal the tank with a "slushing" material without opening the tank to reach and clean the interior completely rarely results in an acceptable repair. The best approach is to discard the tank in favor of a replacement. The cost of a new tank is usually about $300, and make fuel line and filter problems disappear. My own preference is for plastic tanks that will never rust. For the purist, good original repro steel tanks are available, even in stainless steel. This message was edited by supereal on 7-18-18 @ 8:57 AM
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| woodiewagon46 | -- 07-18-2018 @ 9:07 AM |
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Thanks for the reply, the tank on a Model A, is removable and the tank I am working is out of the car. The owner has looked for a new tank and can't locate a really nice one. Another reason he would like to keep the tank is because '29 Model A tanks are date coded, with a production date stamped on the drivers side. I may try the MEK if I can't locate a professional that does this kind of work. My thought , and I know it's a lot of work, is to cut two access holes on the bottom of the tank and have it sandblasted and then TIG up the holes.
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| Bob Oh | -- 07-18-2018 @ 11:02 AM |
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You might Goggle [derusting vintage auto fuel tanks ] And look at Orozcos Auto Service. They have a most interesting web site that could help with your gas tank. I have no connection with them only thought their process was very good. Bob
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| woodiewagon46 | -- 07-18-2018 @ 2:56 PM |
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Thanks Bob, the problem is that Orozcos is located in California and I'm 3200 miles away on Long Island. Location is part of the problem, L.I. isn't exactly the hotbed of auto restoration etc., so many restrictions. Radiator and gas tank repair shops are now like hen's teeth. I found one about 20 miles away and will take a trip tomorrow.
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