How to Weld a Tank
You can repair gas or diesel tanks by welding the seams that may be leaking. Auto racers may also cut and shorten the length of a fuel tank to minimize vehicle weight. Welding a fuel tank can be extremely dangerous if proper safety measures are not strictly enforced. Proper ventilation is required in addition to safety equipment and evacuation procedures. MIG welding is employed when repairing a fuel tank. You can buy MIG welders or rent them from tool outlet stores. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Approved container for flammable liquids
- MIG welder
- Argon Gas
- Welding mask
- Insulated gloves
- Air hose and air compressor
- Wire bush
- Shop towels
- Soapy water
- Fumes mask
- Service manual for make and model of vehicle
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Instructions
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How to Weld a Tank
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1
Disconnect the battery from the vehicle to prevent accidental spark.
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2
Drain the fuel from the fuel tank into an approved flammable liquid container. After you completely drain the tank, set the container in a safe place away from the work area.
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3
Remove the fuel tank per manufacturer guidelines. After you remove the tank, remove it to the area where you will be welding. Confirm that there are no flammable materials near the fuel tank.
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4
Put on the fumes mask. Clean the inside of the fuel tank by pouring warm soapy water into the filler neck. Rinse thoroughly several times if needed, then drain it into an approved flammable container.
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5
Apply argon gas to the inside of the fuel tank with the air hose and air compressor. Let the argon run through the tank for at least an hour or until the smell of fuel dissipates. Be absolutely certain that you removed the fuel odor completely. Failure to do so could result in a fire or explosion.
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Put on the welding helmet and insulated gloves. Begin the welding process by creating a weld pool at the beginning of the repair area. A weld pool is a puddle of melted metal that will form from the heat of the MIG welders torch.
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7
Drag the weld pool along the length of the repair area with the welding torch until you complete the repair.
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8
Allow the fuel tank to cool. Clean the new weld with a wire brush to remove rough edges and weld splatter. Wipe clean with the shop towel.
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9
Pour a small amount of fuel in the tank to test for leaks. If you find no leaks, re-install the fuel tank per auto manufacturer guidelines.
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Tips & Warnings
Welding a fuel tank is extremely dangerous and should only be performed by certified welders.
The fuel tank must be completely cleaned of fuel residue and vapor before welding starts.
The risk of explosion is possible if you don't follow proper safety measures.
If unsure about your ability to weld a fuel tank, do not try it. Contact a certified welder or automotive specialty repair shop to do the work for you.
References
Resources
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