Fuel Tank Sealant
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 166
Likes: 0
From: California Desert
Fuel Tank Sealant Peeling Inside Tank
2002 Ultra Classic, 40,000 miles, no extended warranty
I removed the fuel filter assembly to perform a routine fuel filter replacement and noticed the sealant/rust preventative on the inside of the tank is peeling away in one 1 inch by 1 inch spot and bubbled up in other spots on the bottom of the tank. There is no scratch damage or rust in the tank that I can see. It appears to me as if the sealer just didn't adhere properly to the metal and finally came loose. I changed the filter at 20,000 miles and didn't see any evidence of peeling. The only fuel additive I have used is Stabil, which I can't imagine causing this. I always use good premium gas and have never had any fuel system problems. I live in the desert and don't have any moisture problems.
Called the dealer for suggestions. He said that they are not allowed to paint or seal fuel tanks and that replacement was my only option through them. He said he would see if he could get a recommendation for someone that could reseal it. I'll also call my local indy for advice.
Anyone else had this problem? Any suggestions? I searched and found a thread on POR-15 but have never done anything like it before. I really don't want to have to buy a new tank or have to have this one painted. Can I prep the tank and use POR-15 without destroying my paint? I appreciate any positive advice.
I removed the fuel filter assembly to perform a routine fuel filter replacement and noticed the sealant/rust preventative on the inside of the tank is peeling away in one 1 inch by 1 inch spot and bubbled up in other spots on the bottom of the tank. There is no scratch damage or rust in the tank that I can see. It appears to me as if the sealer just didn't adhere properly to the metal and finally came loose. I changed the filter at 20,000 miles and didn't see any evidence of peeling. The only fuel additive I have used is Stabil, which I can't imagine causing this. I always use good premium gas and have never had any fuel system problems. I live in the desert and don't have any moisture problems.
Called the dealer for suggestions. He said that they are not allowed to paint or seal fuel tanks and that replacement was my only option through them. He said he would see if he could get a recommendation for someone that could reseal it. I'll also call my local indy for advice.
Anyone else had this problem? Any suggestions? I searched and found a thread on POR-15 but have never done anything like it before. I really don't want to have to buy a new tank or have to have this one painted. Can I prep the tank and use POR-15 without destroying my paint? I appreciate any positive advice.
Last edited by HEMSPLT; Jan 29, 2009 at 03:09 PM. Reason: Clarify Title
Stage II
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
did it on my flt convertible didnt get it all out I followed all the directions still had problems with petcock and carb put a external chrome and glass line filter all was good I thought it was a waste of time and money but some people swear by it
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 3,236
Likes: 95
From: lancaster, pa
ive seen someone put some sort of rocks in there tank ,then wrap the tank in a quilt,then rap duck tape around the quilt and put the whole thing in a laundry dryer.After the old coating was polished off they poured in the new coating liquid,shaked it and let dry.looked clever?
Tourer
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 371
Likes: 1
From: RI
"ive seen someone put some sort of rocks in there tank ,then wrap the tank in a quilt,then rap duck tape around the quilt and put the whole thing in a laundry dryer.After the old coating was polished off they poured in the new coating liquid,shaked it and let dry.looked clever?"
Gas tank in a dryer...? ....Looked clever? C'mon, is that a joke?
fumes+ Heat= spark= boom...I would run for sure.
Gas tank in a dryer...? ....Looked clever? C'mon, is that a joke?
fumes+ Heat= spark= boom...I would run for sure.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 915
Likes: 2
From: nw alabama
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 3,236
Likes: 95
From: lancaster, pa
no joke,,,,im shure they rinsed the tank out first
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 2,578
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From: On a Lake, not far from the Gulf
I don't know if I would use POR-15 on a tank that was not rusted. It's purpose is to stop rusting once it has begun. Used it on the floorpans of Jeeps, and it worked well for that purpose. I will second the Kreem way if you wish to DIY.