Rusty fuel tank

[rkchainsaw]

I have a 73 JDX4. The fuel tank is very rusty. I have read that vinegar seems to do a good job. Any other suggestions???
Randy

[AirborneX4Special]

Seems like there's a thread here about this very topic. Something like a piece of chain, some Pine-Sol, and agitation followed by a pressure washer. Do a search here and on Vintage Sleds because it's on one or both someplace.

[400brian]

oven cleaner

[rkchainsaw]

Thanks guys,
400brian can you elaborate on the oven cleaner? Brand? What is the procedure?
Thanks
Randy

[400brian]

The oven cleaner does a decent job of removing the tar that you often find in these tanks. Get as much of the loose stuff out as you can, then spray in a can of Easy Off. Thrown in a hand full of nuts, a chunk of chain, what ever you have, and agitate. Let it soak for a day or two, agitate some more.
The rust is more problematic. You can use any number of acids to remove the rust, but it will flash rust immediately if you flush it out with water, a little diesel is better. The next issue is that when you get the tank cleaned up, you may find pin holes in the gauge or filler necks, this is where the condensation collects. If that is the case, the only way to really salvage the tank might be a coating like Kreem.

[rkchainsaw]

Thanks 400,
I worked on the tank tonight for awhile. The vinegar did an ok job, but I need to get more crud out. I'll throw in some stuff to agitate then I'll go with the oven cleaner. I'll have to google Kreem, but I appreciate the info.

[deeresleder]

I have used muriatic acid mixed with water and worked very well. I usually leave it sit for a day moving it around several times with all inlets covered. Then I use baking soda and water to neutralize the acid and rinse with water and tip upside down to dry. Redcoat to me is the best sealer and coating for a metal gas tank.

[rkchainsaw]

Thank you. I appreciate the info.