Removing petrol tank sealant

[unclerob]

I bought an A10 recently that had been restored several years ago but never used and the tank is lined with a sealant, no idea what type or make though...at first it was hard to the touch but I can see that its gradually softening, I can mark it with a fingernail now....though it hasn't actually broken up as yet and the tank doesn't leak.
I'm thinking it's only going to get worse so seems like I should do something....either try and dissolve it (I work with grp a lot and have gallons of acetone to hand?) and not too worried about having to re paint the tank but I can see it's going to be hard to get rid of all of it....
Wondering if it would be worth trying to just overcoat it with an ethanol proof sealer ...anyone tried that...it would save a lot of work?

[muskrat]

G'day Rob. I did try that but no success. Good old fashioned paint stripper does the job. It might take a few goes and a week or two. I know straight methanol will eat the kreem type coating.
Cheers

[Yarp]

I done the same on my T110, it's lasted a couple years but it's now lifting. It really needs to be stripped completely or your just kicking it down the road

[1959superocket]

My tank was lined when painted by Paintwork Express during restoration 3 years ago.

In October I drained tank and noticed that there was some rust spots showing through the lining so was not too pleased as they painted externally and re-chromed. I saw no sense in returning it to them to be re-done so looked on the web for options.

In November I sent it to a firm called Tank Care Products who sell the chemicals to strip, de-rust and re-line the tank and also offer a re-lining service.

I decided to send my tank to them to sort for me and expect it back shortly so will post the outcome but if anyone has used them let me know.

TCP does have a good website explaining the process and prices so have a look as they seem to know what they are doing.

If you decide to send it to TCP better get it off soon as expect it will be 2-3 months before you see it as they are busy.

Regards

Stuart

 

[Rocket Racer]

I used POR15 in my race tank, supposed to be methanol proof, but most has quietly peeled off which has been a pain. (clogged filters)

Personally I'm now erring more towards the addition of upper cylinder lube or 2 stroke not just helping the engine but also protecting the tank.
As for my race tank, it still has remnant POR treatment (adding no value) and is sloshed around with oils once the methanol is drained.

I haven't tried to remove the remnant POR. I guess soaking with acetone would be the answer.

[1959superocket]

Further to my earlier post received the tank back today from Tank Care Products and it looks like a superb job done on the re-lining.

The coating looks nice and even all over including the central divider.

The tank was previously finished externally as you can see from my first post and it has been protected and free from damage whilst being relined.

Will let you all know how the coating stands up in use but looks good so far.

Well done Ian at Tank Care Products.

Regards

Stuart

[unclerob]

I don't know if it works with all types of sealant but I did try acetone on my tank.....completely filled it (its cheaper than petrol!!) left it for a week and then emptied it. I was expecting to have lots of bits left inside but it dissolved the lot....
I then realised the tank had been full of acetone for a week and no leaks....so not sure why it was originally done....
Only minor downside was the acetone also affected the rubber cap and tap seals which I've had to replace.