How to Repair a Hole in a Gas Tank

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:RepairHoleGasTank
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How to Repair a Hole in a Gas Tank

Introduction

Any gas tank hole should be repaired as soon as it is noticed. If you constantly smell gas near your car, check for tiny pinholes. A leaking gas tank not only wastes fuel, it can also cause a fire. The epoxy repair method works well for fixing small holes in a gas tank.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You'll Need

  • Acetone or lacquer thinner
  • Container for contaminated liquid
  • Masking or duct tape
  • Putty
  • Plastic container for mixing sealer
  • Epoxy sealer
  • Plastic wrap
  • Rubber band
  • Knife

Steps

1

Step One

Remove the gas tank and drain any remaining gasoline. Add 1 pt. lacquer thinner or acetone into the gas tank to remove any residual gas.
2

Step Two

Rotate the tank by hand a few times to cover the sides thoroughly. Dispose of the liquid in the tank according to the environmental guidelines of your area.
3

Step Three

Dislodge any leftover rust by adding some drywall screws and shaking the tank for a couple of minutes. Add 1 pt. of liquid thinner or acetone. Rinse the tank before allowing it to dry.
4

Step Four

Apply masking tape or duct tape to holes, seams or porous areas to stop any sealer from coming out. Use putty to seal the outlet ports.
5

Step Five

Mix the 2 parts of the sealer together for at least 2 minutes, and then pour into the tank.
6

Step Six

Use plastic wrap and a rubber band to seal the filler hole. Rotate the tank for a few minutes to allow the sealer to coat the inside. Remove the plastic wrap and pour out any remaining sealer allowing the tank to drain.
7

Step Seven

Use a knife to scrape off any excess and allow the gas tank to cure overnight.

Tips & Warnings

  • To avoid possible failure of the epoxy sealer, mix and measure the sealer carefully.
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