Fuel Tank Sealer Thoughts?

[Tacitus043]

I am coming into home stretch in the restoration of my Johnson JW-12.  The last item that needs addressing is the fuel tank, which is fairly crusty on the inside.  The tank had numerous pinhole leaks which I was able to seal externally.  I plan on sanding the outside down and filling big dents before paint and decals.  Before I focus on the exterior I wanted to make sure no pinhole leaks popped up again. I’ve swished mineral spirits and a length of chain around the tank trying to break up as much crud as possible but I worry about the thinness of the corroded aluminum.  I was thinking about gas tank sealers such as the POR-15 version or redcoat, but have heard mixed stories from people.  Some guys say the stuff is great, others seem to have issues with the sealer material leaching into the fuel.  What are ya’lls thoughts on the stuff?  Thanks.

[The Boat House]

The aluminum tanks crack, from vibration, on one of the motors I have an interest in. I use Red Coat in them to seal the leaks and hopefully help in holding the tank together. I can have one of them on the boat for a month or longer running 2 to 3 times a day weather permitting. I have never had any issues. I get the tanks clean, and the use some type of cleaner with a mild acid, diluted with water by 50%, to etch the tank for 20 to 30 minuets, or until it stops foaming. As you describe your tank it may not survive the etching. That’s a pretty common motor. You should be able to find a better tank and possibly less than the cost to seal your tank.  Check eBay. There are all kinds of them on there from serviceable to near mint condition.  Tubs

[seakaye12]

Like Tubs says…..if at all possible replace the tank.  

[Author]

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