Repair or replace leaking fuel tank?

[AtomicDog]

Fuel tank in my '86 is leaking. Initial inspection looks like it's coming from the mounting flange at about a 30 drop per minute rate.

How repairable is a fuel tank? Anyone have a shop in NJ that they can recommend for this kind of work?

Would I be better off picking up a good used tank, instead? My tank didn't start in what I would call "pristine" condition.

If anyone should have a spare fuel tank or extra fuel cell that they might be willing to sell, you have my attention.

Thanks.

Chris

[David]

I've used these guys: Moyer Fuel Tank Renu - antique gas tank repair restoration, classic car gas tanks GASTANK

They cut the tank open, clean out the rust, weld it back together and coat it inside and out. I think I paid about $300 several years ago.

[AtomicDog]

David,

Thank you for the suggestion. Since they are not too far away, shipping shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. I'll give them a shout with a few questions...

Chris

[Grady Clay]

Chris,

The first diagnosis is: Why is it leaking?
Was there damage? Rust? Original manufacture defect (unlikely at this point)?
You don’t want to repair one leak only to have another appear.
You cannot put sealant inside one of these (unless cut apart) as it will clog up the ‘Swirl Pot’ fuel/vapor separator.

An ’86 tank should be available from a rust-free salvage.
Investigate that prospect (including shipping).
If you go with a replacement, save the old tank, the bottom part (flange and below) makes a perfect base for a race fuel cell.

Best,
Grady

[AtomicDog]

Grady,

According to your price list, I now owe you $12.50. Based on the leak location, I'm going to guess rust. Further, based on PITA factor, I'll bet that the swirl pot tanks are 1984-1989. Best price so far is $550. Lovely.

Thank you. I'm quite sure your instincts are correct - hence the tab.

Chris

[balleta]

I got one tank repaired in my 78 SC with plain sheet metal a few years ago. The man cut the rusted (pitted) area and then soldered new sheet metal with tin. Before that the tank was completely cleaned, dried with compressed air and then air dried for a few days to completely vent vapors out. Until I sold the car, it worked with no leaks. Cost? If I remember well was about $40.00.

[AtomicDog]

balleta,

Thank you for the info. I wish my repair could be straightforward, but after draining the tank today, large areas of the flange are leaking and rusted. It sure looks like there will be a new tank in my future.

Chris