Rust proofing fuel tanks

Post by **Cam** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 12:20 am

I have bought a new fuel tank, and I want to rust proof it as much as I can before fitting it.

It already seems to be zinc coated, but I thought of painting it with 2 coats of red oxide rust proofing primer, followed by a coat (or two) of Hammerite/Waxoyl underbody protective paint.

I would like some opinions on whether this course of action is OK, or if I should use some other treatments........

Thanks

Post by **Gareth** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 9:10 am

I can't see how that would harm it. A good coat of Waxoyl afterwards should help to stem the growth of any tinworm.

I have heard of some tanks rusting from the inside out, but that was when the car had been standing for some time, so I should think you would be OK.

Post by **Daddsie** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 9:13 am

The only problem is applying Hammerite over primer, it should be applied to bare metal. I use Rust-oleum, it comes in many colours is quick drying and does not react with other paint (unlike Hammerite)

The combi colour product is a rust proofer and high gloss finish in one, it is manufactured in the Netherlands but is fairly widely available in most decorating outlets.

Post by **Cam** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 9:39 am

Daddsie,

Yes, Hammerite should be applied to bare metal, but the stuff I was going to use is the combined hammerite/waxoyl mix. the stuff that never completely dries. It's half Hammerite and half Waxoyl. I wonder if the same applies, or if you can paint over red oxide (I'll have a look at the tin)???

Or do you think I would be better off with just a couple of coats of normal smooth Hammerite??

I like the idea of "Rust-oleum" but I have never seen it..... plus I have already got lots of red oxide, hammerite and hammerite/waxoyl underbody protective paint

Post by **Willie** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 9:56 am

Of course,tanks rot from the inside if water had found its
way in because the water sits at the BOTTOM of the tank.
My tank was Hammerited eight years ago and then sprayed
with Waxoyl. It has been repainted with Waxoyl on the
'wearing' edges a couple of times since and is in perfect
condition.

Post by **Cam** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 9:58 am

So, you would favour the Hammerite route, as opposed to the red oxide and underbody treatment then?

Post by **Willie** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 10:03 am

Yes Cam, Hammerite because it goes straight on to bare metal
and Waxoyl because,over time, it assumes the characteristics
of underseal anyway by attracting road dust and building up
a protective layer which does not dry out and crack. No good
if you believe that you should be able to eat your dinner off of
the underneath of a car but very good at preserving your pride
and joy.

Post by **Cam** » Sun Jun 22, 2003 10:15 am

Thanks mate!

I'll use a good few coats of Hammerite straight to the bare metal (well the zinc coating that's already on) and then follow up with waxoyl.

Thanks again.

Post by **h_____** » Mon Jun 23, 2003 4:27 pm

For those of you interested (Cam you have a garage of hammerite already I understand), I have started using POR 15. http://www.porshop.com/ plenty of people sell it in the UK. It is excellent, esp when topcoated with a chassis black. I have used it on the sills of my minor. The smooth paint means nothing sticks to it, you can always see what condition it is in. So far it has done 2 years, with out any chips or problems. It is a bit expensive though.

Post by **Cam** » Mon Jun 23, 2003 5:41 pm

I have already painted my tank now with 2 coats of Hammerite, thanks to Willie's suggestion and it seems OK (I guess only time will tell, but if I get 8 years + out of it I will be chuffed).

I have seen that POR15 before.....I think that Frost of Rochdale sell it.

I will give it a go next time when I run out of Hammerite!!