Winter fuel tank preservation...

[brother chris]

I have a 1962 30' fairliner, and planned on putting her in the water, but due to unforseen circumstances, it will be dry-docked for the winter. <br />I recently opened the gas tank and emptied it. Good thing I did, there was little globs of gasket that was flotting in the tank. <br />So, I was told that having a tank empty is worse than having a tank sit there with gas in it. <br />The tank is aluninum and I was wondering if it will oxidize during the winter if I don't put a coating of something on the inside of it. <br />Is this correct, or can the tank sit there, empty, for the winter? <br />What is the best way to ensure the tank stays like it is...in good condition? <br />Thanks for any help.<br />Brother Chris...

 

[Sean Riddle]

Re: Winter fuel tank preservation...

You should be o.k. flushing it with a little mineral spirits , let it dry completely and put in dry storage for the winter. You can also drop in a couple of silica gel packs just to make sure you don't get any moisture from condensation. Back in the old days my grandpa would store his with a little dried sawdust to absorb any moisture but the silica packs work a lot better and with no mess . Hope this helps, RR

 

[brother chris]

Re: Winter fuel tank preservation...

Thanks riddlers ride.<br />I think that is the best idea...putting it inside for the winter. <br />Sawdust...never thought of that.<br />I just did a search on silica gel packs. Those are the packets you find in things you buy to keep the moisture out. Gotcha..now I know what you are talking about. <br />Thanks,<br />Brother Chris...

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Winter fuel tank preservation...

An empty tank shouldn’t be a problem if well vented. A partially filled diesel tank is a problem at all times and thus should be kept full. Partially filled gas tank isn’t as critical. If the air outside the tank cools faster than the air inside the tank (it will!) condensation will develop on the metal surfaces inside the tank…and water drips into the fuel. The water itself is not a problem. All modern fuel filters are extremely effective at removing the water. Technically, gas has a 90-day shelf life…but we all use it well after that time. Diesel does not deteriorate like gasoline and can be stored for really long periods. But unlike gas, diesel does allow growth of microbes in the water that is produced from condensation of a partially filled tank.<br /><br />Should you decide to put silica gel crystals in there anyway, you can get them through craft stores and hobby shops. They are used to dry flowers. Also, you can get rather large packets (for free!) from electronics retailers that install big screen tvs. The units are often shipped a with a couple silica bags (about ½ lb ea). You might call around and ask.<br /><br />Silica crystals have a finite amount of water they will absorb and hold and thus must be maintained. Spread the crystals out on a cookie sheet, place in oven (180 degF) for 20 mins. If you buy them you can get the ones with a color indicator in some of the crystals. They appear as random pink crystal but will turn blue when saturated…or visa-versa. You’ll know when to toss into them into the oven…and when to take them out of the oven.

 

[brother chris]

Re: Winter fuel tank preservation...

Thanks 18rabbit. <br />It is not diesel, but I do appreciate the info. <br />I think I will just go over to Future Shop and ask them for any extra packets. <br />I'd hate to have to replace my gas tank due to ignorance. <br />Cheers...