1954 fuel tank leak replacement

[Ted K.]

A couple of years ago I bought a new 1956 fuel tank from Ecklers and adapted it into my 1954 Corvette. A couple of months later I noticed a leak around the solder joint for the fuel line. After much hassel I received a new replacement tank and installed it. That was 9 months ago and now I notice seepage around the solder joint on the new tank. Hard to believe I got two defective gas tanks. Has anyone else experienced this phenomenon?
I am thinking of trying to seal leak from the outside. Has anyone used a good sealer that really works

[Domenic T.]

Re: 1954 fuel tank leak replacement

Ted,
Can you reach the seep? With a empty tank and a inert gas such a Co2 you can solder. Normally solder will not ignite if done right, but there is always the possibility of a ember from something that could do it. I have done this before without a problem with the old wood handle soldering iron.
Otherwise, good old JB weld seals pretty good. I have welded gas tanks that were removed, but I flushed them with water then tilted the tank so there would be a small air gap under the crack, then threw in dry ice to create Co2. Drilled a 1/8" hole where I wanted to start and when the Co2 gas came thru the hole I welded. Solder would be safe that way. Welding or soldering the 1/8 hole last made it all work. I did about a dozen tanks. Now steam cleaning won't be safe as the heat wi9ll let gas fumes come out of the seams.
The tank was filled with water all but a cup so it was safe.
Personally I would remove the tank and solder it using the water and dry ice with the water far enough from the place to be soldered. Tricky but it works. I have done aluminum tanks with my mig, and some large metal tanks.
Saw 2 guys cut up a huge tank at a factory. Actually couldn't watch, but they did it. I would NEVER use their method, but they hooked a hose up to their exhaust pipe and filled the tank with exhaust!! Not for me.

Dom

[Ted K.]

Re: 1954 fuel tank leak replacement

Thanks for the good information. At this time I am looking for the quick fix without removing the tank from the car. I have access to the leak as it is right where the fuel line connects. Any ideas besides JB Weld, I understand the fuel eventually softens it and starts to leak again.

[Domenic T.]

Re: 1954 fuel tank leak replacement

Jb doesn't soften if properly used. Good stuff, but surface must be clean. Will do a quick fix if not permanent.
Dom

[Chris S.]

Re: 1954 fuel tank leak replacement

I buy my 54 tanks from C Central with out a leak.