Leaking Gas Tanks – There may be Hope

Have you ever been faced with a leaking gas tank in which repairs to the tank itself have been necessary?

If you’ve never had the experience of trying to find someone who is willing to braze or weld on an old gas tank, you’re in for a shock. The first reaction you’re likely to get is outright refusal.

The second most common tactic is to quote a price that is so high you give up the idea. People just don’t like to do that kind of work. So, the usual result is that you either 1) use it the way it is, or 2) hock your soul to buy a new one.

There is a compound used in the aircraft industry, apparently to solve the same problem. It’s called “slushing compound,” and is a sealant that leaves a protective rubber-like coating on the inside of tanks in which it’ is applied–it also acts as a rust preventative and will
seal any pinhole leaks or cracks.

The recommended technique is to swirl some lacquer thinner around inside the tank to remove loose rust and foreign material. Then, add about a pint of slushing compound and slosh it around by tipping the tank. A common brand name is Randolph Slushing Compound, which is supposedly available from aircraft supply firms.

But, you can also just go to Amazon and get POR-15 Standard Tank Sealer.