Cleaning Fuel Tank

[Jack Shellac]

The 5 gal fuel tank on my generator has gunk and rust spots on the bottom. Does anyone have any ideas on how to clean it out and keep it clean? It's only used during power outages, but I use fuel stabilizer and don't let the same gas stay in it over about 6 months. This apparently wasn't enough. BTW it's a steel tank.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

Most any motorcycle dealership have tank coating kits. They clean, etch and coat the insides of fuel tanks. I have found that a using nuts and bolts inside the tank and shake it up knocks off the rust. Nuts and bolts are easier to get out.

Kreem is one name and I believe POR makes a coating too.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

Thanks, Bob. I'll give this a try.

 

[aspeck]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

If Bob's suggestion doesn't work, you can always use a torch to clean and dry the tank! :^ :^ :%

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

And wear ear plugs....

 

[NBE]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

Don't forget your safety glasses too.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

But be careful not to smoke when you do it........

 

[GREGS89BAYLINER]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

You can also try some "44k" you can buy it from auto dealerships (not parts stores) its liquid gold!!

 

[j_martin]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

If Bob's suggestion doesn't work, you can always use a torch to clean and dry the tank! :^ :^ :%

And wear ear plugs....

Don't forget your safety glasses too.

But be careful not to smoke when you do it........

ROFL. Takes me back to my motorcycle racing days, brazing up a seam on a Triumph 250 tank half full of gas. Clears the onlookers back about 100 feet when you wipe the flame past the fill hole after you get the gas boiling real good.

'65 - '67 a looong time ago.

 

[j_martin]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

Unless the generator is an auto start setup, keep the fuel tank completely empty, and seal the gas cap with a piece of plastic wrap or bag under the cap. Store the fuel in a tight gas can nearby.

Or find a drier place to keep the generator.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Cleaning Fuel Tank

Yup I image the original poster has been waiting FOUR + years to clean the tank.




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