How to Repair a Leaking Metal Fuel Tank Without Welding

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How to repair a leaking metal fuel tank without welding. I haven’t tried this method on a plastic fuel tank, but this procedure can possible be used on that as well. Unfortunately on my 1984 BMW 733i I am experiencing a fuel tank when the tank is full. At first I expected this to be a faulty rubber line, but unfortunately that wasn’t the case after it was removed. #oemtools #bmw #rustrepair

Amazon links for various products used in the video for both USA and Canada:
USA
Canada

Tools/Supplies Needed:
-tank sealant (PR-1422 CLASS B FUEL TANK SEALANT SEMKIT - B2)
-grinder
-primer (etching and filler)
-sandpaper
-sandblaster
-rust converter
-paint
-degreaser
-polyurethane film
-foam vibration pads

Procedure:
Remove the tank from the vehicle, removal procedures will vary. Using a gas can, I put a rag over the filler hole to strain any dirt out the fuel. If you are refinishing the whole tank, remove any coating, fuel pump, and any other items.

An old trick is running exhaust fumes through the tank, I let the fumes run for about an hour. The longer it airs out, the better. In addition to this, the tank can also be washed out with soap and water. Or it can also be filled with argon which is used for mig welding when cleaning up those rusty areas. Using a heat gun and a plastic scraper, remove the wax coating. Then use a degreaser to clean the surface.

The most efficient was to remove rust in these hard to reach areas is using a media blaster. If you don’t have access to sanding blasting equipment, you can use a surface sander too with 80 grit sanding discs. While I can strip the whole tank to bare steel, it really isn’t need. Others areas which has rust will be address and repaired accordingly.

Sand those areas where the rust was with 220 grit sandpaper. Use a wax and grease remover to clean up the tank again, removing any dust or contaminants on the surface. Apply etch primer to the bare metal, 2-3 coats are needed. If rust is left on some areas, a rust converter can be used to remove or neutralize the rust. Follow the products instructions for the application process.

Here I have an aircraft grade fuel tank sealant. This is a two part product, the activator is in the long tube. Mix the activator as per the products requirements.

Apply the sealant to the leaking areas, smoothen it out using a stick or by hand. Work times will vary depending on the protect along with it's cure time. Make sure you’re far enough past the leaking areas to provide a strong bond and this will provide and excellent seal.

Once hardened, I used 220 grit to sand out the sealant, again I’m not trying to make this repair completely hidden but I also want it to look responsibly clean. The rest of the tank will be sanded with 400 grit sandpaper to provide a bond for the new paint. For irregular shapes, a 400 grit scuffing pad can be used.

Clean the tank and wipe it down with a degreaser.

Apply a filler primer over the etch primer, 2 to 3 coats are needed. Once the primer has dried, sand the tank down using 400 grit sandpaper and abrasive pads.

Clean the tank again using a degreaser before paint is applied. Paint choices can vary, I am using a farm equipment implement paint which is extremely durable. Tape off any areas as needed, then apply the paint.

After the paint has dried, the vibration and squeak coatings will need to be replaced.

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© 4DIYers 2013
All Rights Reserved
No part of this video or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the author.
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Amazon links for various products used in the video for both USA and Canada:
USA
Canada

DIYers
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A first class job, very professional, makes me want to tackle my RAV4 tank, thanks for sharing 👍😃

clifficus
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Gt video. I had a fight w a boulder...and lost. I have a tiny leak in my steel long ranger tank. It is diesel. I have tried everything whilst not removing the tank. Quick steel potties. Failed in 2 days. Jb tank weld...lasted 2 wks. So far hard soap has worked best...lasted 14 days without further attention. Now I re plug with soap daily.

Tank removal is awkward and time consuming but everything I have tried has eventually failed. looks like I am up for tank removal. I intend to get it welded by a pro. Enjoyed yr vid. Thankyou.

ronachadwick
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im fixing my car and it has pinholes at the top caused by rust and this dude explains how to fix everything and make it look like a professional did it to.

titusballard
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Very professional work man! This tank will outlast the car.

mihailvasilev
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This is amazing. I came to look for a video regarding fuel tank repair and it just so happens to be for my 1986 BMW L7 hahaha!

Symboria
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I really enjoyed this video and your attention to detail. I'm currently sorting out a gas tank with similar issues so this video was a great reference. Thanks!

ChewsReviews
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I don't know if I would have the patience ! But still, as usual, a really informative video think I will give my garage the task on my E38 !!! Thanks, regards Andrew

andrewlawson
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Nice work man! Very clear and concise.

marklorenz
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Well done! Thank you for your clear explanation of the products that you used.

gregandsueplummer
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Very helpful video. Thank you for sharing! Liked how thorough you were with it. You made that tank look brand new. 🙌

healthfitnessjourneywithva
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DIYers
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Wish I'd seen this before getting my fuel pump replaced. would have tackled all the cosmetic/preventative stuff you detailed here. And in SW Ontario, gas tank repair is very expensive, distant, and you have a very long downtime. And as you point out, a new tank can be cost prohibitive.

MrOnemanop
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Interesting. I actually watched it all.

calamondiin
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Nice video. Moves fast, presumably because it's long. Would be good if we could see a thumbnail pic of each product can for maybe 10 secs as we go along, because it's hard to write down the names when you say them fast. Links to suppliers would also be handy. Very much appreciate the good filming and explanation.

leojbourne
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Holy cow. You put a lot of work into that gas tank.

charlesronk
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Thanks for the video the tank looks great

brandonbunsold
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Wow, amazing work. Tank looks brand new. Very nice video and tone of voice too.

WisdomInExperience
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Seems a bit overkill to me but fantastic job.

generalworks
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Nice repair and refinish project . Thumbs Up!

garymucher