Author Topic: Cleaning metal fuel tank  (Read 543 times)

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Offline rayvil01

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Cleaning metal fuel tank
« on: March 18, 2018, 10:27:53 am »
I bought a 1990 vintage 5 hp Troy Bilt Pony tiller at a yard sale.  It had gas in the tank from goodness knows when.  I got it out and cleaned the sludge as best I could with rags and long pliers.  Put fresh gas in, and shocker, it ran.  But, the inside of that tank has some rust in it.  I'll put a new fuel filter/strainer and hoses.  What are some cleaning options after I pull it off? 

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Offline Cut4fun .

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Re: Cleaning metal fuel tank
« Reply #1 on: March 18, 2018, 10:51:41 am »
Put a bunch of nuts etc and shake around with a cleaner of some type.

Red kote I hear works good for sealing etc after cleaned up.   


Offline rayvil01

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Re: Cleaning metal fuel tank
« Reply #2 on: March 19, 2018, 09:38:43 am »
Excellent.  Thanks!

Offline deezlfan

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Re: Cleaning metal fuel tank
« Reply #3 on: March 19, 2018, 12:52:50 pm »
A small bit of rust in the tank will rarely cause problems if you don't let the rust get scaly. A small inline filter is usually enough. I wouldn't worry about it once you clean it mechanically as has been suggested.

Only use a chemical tank sealing system if you are willing to follow the instructions to the letter. I have seen way too many people take short cuts and the resulting mess is almost impossible to correct. Failed tank liner will clog lines and orifices with a vengeance and you will not be able to dislodge it to save your life. I've tossed bucket loads of Mikuni and Hitachi carbs clogged full of that gunk that was not applied properly. Stoddard solvent, carb cleaner, paint thinner and ultrasonic cleaners are helpless against that stuff if it isn't applied and cured properly.   
We just drag them down..... Until they're just like us !!!  BNL
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Offline rayvil01

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Re: Cleaning metal fuel tank
« Reply #4 on: March 21, 2018, 09:37:18 am »
Thanks for the advice.  When I take the carb off the top I'll get a better look.  It may be prudent to live with it as is. 

Offline jcsmith

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Re: Cleaning metal fuel tank
« Reply #5 on: April 08, 2018, 10:13:28 am »
 I've used CLR ( calcium , lime , rust ) cleaner with excellent results. Also  I've used plain white vinegar with the same results. Either one can be put down the drain with no problems when done. 

                           Chris






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