Cleaing a fuel tank.

[Prodigal Son]

I have a steel tank (75ish gallons) that needs some cleaning inside (varnish and such). I've got it out of/off of my boat, but now what?

[Prodigal Son]

Anyone? Throw a match in it?

[Capt. Fred]

I had some fuel issues too this spring. After they pumped the tank dry they took a look inside through the hole for the float. Mine happened to look pretty good but he said that they have rinsed them out with solvent. I didn't ask what solvent but I would bet that something like pure ethanol, denatured alchohol, or acetone would do it.

Have you looked inside? The mechanic explained that sometimes the varnish is real obvious if it is really thick.

I have used acetone as a solvent and it is unbelievable what it can strip quickly. Takes about 10 minutes to completely strip all the finish and most of the stain off of wood gun stock.

I'd throw a few gallons of that in there and slosh it around. Pour some out and see if it is loosening anything up.

NO sparks!! and do it outside LOL.

Very nasty stuff but it is a great solvent.

[Prodigal Son]

Just flushed it out thoroughly with water on the suggestion of a tank builder, to be followed by acetone.

Some nasty mess came out with just water...so I'm anxious to see what I can get to come with acetone/alcohol.

[Capt. Fred]

Hmmm... The water suggestion makes me wonder about using a real strong soap like dishwasher detergent and filling the tank with it and water. A couple of bottles of dishwash soap and let it sit for a few days? That stuff will cut damn near anything too.

[BumSomeChum]

Simple Green