gas tank leaks

Farmall Bob · Apr 2, 2009

My gas tank leaks on my Farmall C. Has anyone used one of those repair kits to stop leaks on their tractors gas tanks? What kit would you suggest? Thanks!

Bob

Haas · Apr 2, 2009

Depends how bad the leak is. My C tank was leaking around where the spot welds attached the brackets to the tank. I used a kit from Eastwood Automotive about 7 years ago. It's still holding with no leaks. Kit is not cheap though and you have to get acetone and muratic acid locally in addition to the kit. Important to follow the directions to the letter.
Eastwood

Kendog · Apr 2, 2009

Use Red-Kote.

I spoke with a tech at Red-Kote and they advise not to use it on a tank with a baffle (like my Farmall-A), however I’ve done it successfully twice. The trick is to clean up the tank good (I poured in a small box of gun bb's and shook it to knock out the scale) and give a final rinse with MEK. Then dilute your can of RK with at least 50% MEK, pour it all in and rotate the tank methodically for a good skin layer. Dump out the RK but save it. Force air through the tank overnight, and tomorrow dilute the rest of the RK with a little more MEK , and pour it back into the tank for a second thin layer that will bond to the first. Drain and air out for a week + and let put it together!

Basically two 50% thinned coats (one can RK + 1/2 can of MEK) are MUCH better than one, and any puddles will dissolve and clog the system/filters. MEK can be purchased by the gallon at paint supply stores for $9 gallon. Don’t buy from $30 gallon auto shops, etc.

Good luck! -Ken

Farmall Bob · Apr 2, 2009

Hi Ken,

Can I purchase both Red-Kote and MEK at my local paint store? Also the airing out so it receives a proper drying, can I do it with a fan blowing into the thank? Thanks!

Bob

Dr. Bert · Apr 2, 2009

Farmall Bob: If you have a local airplane mechanic, go to him and buy a quart of "sloosh compound". They use this in aircraft fuel tanks. The new stuff is even safe with the ethanol blends. Clean the tank as suggested, pour in the compd, roll the tank around, and drain back into the can. Simple, easy, and my tanks have not leaked in 10 years.

Oldiron29 · Apr 2, 2009

Farmall Bob, As Haas said I have used the eastwoods kit with very good luck. I would use it again. oldiron29

Kendog · Apr 3, 2009

Red-Kote can be purchased at NAPA, etc.

Any fan source tunneled into the gas tank will move air overnight and be ok.

MEK can be purchased cheapest at paint supply stores for contractors. It's about $5 more at local hardware stores, and most expensive at auto specialty shops. I paid $9 gallon at a Sherwin-Williams contractor supply.

Remember to take the fuel bowl off and plug it with something during the process. A 2" piece of black pipe & cap also makes a great drain.

I'm at [email protected] if you need anything more.

Ken

gas tank leaks

Farmall Bob

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Haas

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Kendog

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Farmall Bob

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Dr. Bert

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Oldiron29

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Kendog

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