somoney311

Well I noticed a fuel leak from the drivers side port on the bottom of the tank. Thinking it is the tank and not the hoses I go about removing the tank. But, what I find is a bit disturbing. More rust than I though I was going to have and I found two holes in the area with the most rust....this is not where it was leaking from. I also noticed that the location from where I "thought" it was leaking looks like it has been modified. Can you guys tell me if you can repair the tank and if the port has been modified?

Thanks
James

Reiver

I'd go with a new tank. I know guys that have used the tank lining systems successfully but I'm not a fan myself.
If not done 100% properly the liner will flake off gumming up your fuel delivery system.

Having it opened up and patched is also an option if the rust is localized but you can spend as much (unless a DIY) doing that as buying a new one.

somoney311

Reiver,

Thanks for the input..I was leaning towards the same but I am game to try anything at least once. Maybe cutting out the small area and welding a new piece in would work. As long as I don't mess up the weld with gaps. Then there is the possibility of small pieces in the tank...Maybe not worth it. If anyone has any advise on the welding aspect (I am new to that) I am all ears. Obviously clean the tank out really well (no fuel) and I have heard to use compressed air or another cars exhaust to "blow out" while welding. What type of metal would I have to get as the patch.

If I am not 100% confident that repair worked or I am just not comfortable, then a new tank would be on order.

James

Amber Gramps

Shop it around your local area. Gas tank repair is often done by radiator repair guys. If you have multiple holes, I'd only trust the opinion of an expert, who's eyes are on it.

JCP911S

Check dismantlers for a used tank also. I'm guessing a new OEM tank would be mucho $$$$$, and actually these tanks tend to be pretty robust. There should be good ones available. The fact that you are seeing rust is disturbing.... something bad is going on with yours.

JCP911S

Also, check with some of the race prep shops... lots of guys pull perfectly good tanks out to put in fuel cells.... they may have some lying around.

Reiver

If I were going to have it repaired I'd have it cut in half at the seam so everything could be repaired properly and cleaned too..

somoney311

Looks like there is a dismantler here in NC called DCAutomotive. I called and they are going to call me back if they have any tanks ready to go. I will drive up there to check it out and if it is good pick it up then. Now to bust some rust that I found.

Does anyone know what the rubbery coating is that is all over the body. I am thinking it is the coating they put on to prevent rust. Mine is flaking off since it has been getting gas on it. Should I remove all the contaminated coating and prime and paint? Or can that coating be purchased and applied by a novice? I included a picture of what I am talking about. It is the light colored area in the lower left of the trunk.

Thanks for the help everyone.

James

Reiver

The factory coating is a Wurth product that accepts painting...it's still available but you need to do good prep prior to its use.

dcautomotive

We have one James, will call you back momentarily.
Rust is pretty common on these, they aren't getting any easier to find
in good shape either. My pet theory is that modern fuels are not helping matters with anything fuel system related on old cars.

somoney311

Reiver,
Once again thanks! I just ordered some Wurth high build underseal. Now I am going to clean out all the contaminated sealant and put new stuff in. I am also going to get a new tank tomorrow. I will be replacing my fuel lines while the tank is out. I have a guy named Len Cummings building my some SS lines and new tunnel lines. I saw his stuff on the other forum and it looks good. Hopefully that will combat the new style gas for a little longer.

James

Amber Gramps

Replace this little guy while you are in there:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/...2539%2529%2520

somoney311

Thanks amber lamps, I'll do that also.

James

theiceman

Wow you are very lucky to live so close to DC Automotive. I would love to go visit that place. new tank time for sure .

Your tank rusted from the inside out for sure . My guess would be ethanol based fuels in a humid environment . Pulls the moisture out of the air and the ethanol seperates it and it sits at the bottom of your tank .. They say in general terms you should never let your tank run empty as it can overheat the the fuel pump. But i have run out of gas more than once . And my solace as I am walking to the gas station is that the tank is empty andTHERE IS NOTHING IN THE BOTTOM.

CW-VIESOCK

STA-BIL products work and will save you a lot of walking.