How to Repair a Fuel Tank by Welding

When your car's gas tank gets dented, it can result in a defaced tank, at best, and reduced fuel capacity, at worst. You have options when it comes to repairing a dented fuel tank. If the dents are moderate, you may be able to purchase a repair kit and pull out the dents using suction. When denting is too severe for such repair to be effective, though, you must have a professional use stud welding --- which involves welding a stud to your fuel tank and pulling on the stud to pull out the dent --- to repair your tank.

Things You'll Need

• Draw pin fastener
• Stud welder system, with gun
• Slide hammer

Instructions

1. Insert a fastener into the chuck of the stud-welding gun.

2. Position the fastener on the surface of the dent, bringing it into firm contact with the fuel tank.

3. Fire the stud welding gun, thus welding the fastener to the surface of your fuel tank in a fraction of a second.

4. Connect the hook of your slide hammer to the draw pin. then whip the weight of hammer toward the handle, up and away from the draw pins, to pull out the dent in the tank.

Tips & Warnings

• Operating the slide hammer with excessive force can cause holes to be torn in the metal of your fuel tank. Be sure that a professional experienced with both welding systems and slide hammer operation is repairing your fuel tank.

References

• The Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living: Slide Hammer
• Cycle Finish: Fuel Tank Repair