Gas Tank Leaking

[firefighter615]

I am restoring a 1983 Ranger 372V. After removing the gas tanks I noticed that one of them was leaking fuel that was left in the tank. They appear to be Aluminum tanks. What is the best way to repair this pin hole leak in the bottom of the tank? Is there a way that I can repair it? I wish that I has a picture of the hole but I was more concerned about getting it out of the garage since I had the wood stove going.

Thanks for all you help.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Gas Tank Leaking

What is the best way to repair this pin hole leak in the bottom of the tank?

Ayuh,...... Replace it.......

There'll be More leaks that you can't see now.......

 

[gcboat]

Re: Gas Tank Leaking

100% in agreement with Bond-o on that one. Seen too many folks try the patch job only to see it fail. Then it's tear everything apart and do the replacement thing. Lots of aluminum marine tank folks out there. A quick Google search will turn up a bunch. Nah - never trust a patch job on those.

 

[cindalyn]

Re: Gas Tank Leaking

Agree - Repalce the tank. If the tank is empty take a wire brush and pound on it in any areas that appear to be discolored or "powdery". Odds are you will uncover pin holes you had no idea were there. In addition, you have no idea how many are also on the verge of developing. Too dangerous to take chancess.

I'm in the process of replacing my 33 gal. tank now. I estimate final cost will be close to $600 including tank, paint [abt. $30/qt.], foam, "NEW" hoses, caulking and freight.

I bougt mine from Florida Marine Tanks. They are "FANTASTIC" to work with. They test and certify, something you want done.

Good luck.

 

[Ride The Lightning]

Re: Gas Tank Leaking

Hi,

the right way is to cut the damaged plate off and weld in a new one.
Because of the thickness of the Alu you can not weld the hole itself. Or is the defect near or in a weld seam?

 

[fixb52s]

Re: Gas Tank Leaking

Florida Marine Tanks will build me a new custom 21 gallon tank for $300, but mine only has a few pinholes on the top. I am taking it to a shop here in Tampa who specializes in these tanks first. Small pinholes can be welded up if the surrounding metal is sound, but major holes require a lot more, especially if they are on the bottom. I will let the tank shop steer me in the right direction.​