Date: Mon, 16 Jan 2006 18:05:40 -0500
Reply-To: Michael Edwards <medwards1@TRIAD.RR.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Michael Edwards <medwards1@TRIAD.RR.COM>
Subject: Gas Tank Restore
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I have to drop the gas tank on my 87 to fix the typical leak when full. Since I'm going to already have it out, I want to clean it up, paint it and put a liner in it so I don't have to worry about it again for a while. A fellow list member suggested the POR-15 sealer kit and the how-to instructions found at http://www.ratwell.com/technical/FuelTankRestoration.html
However, when a local shop recently went to have it lined, they were told it couldn't be done because of a screen inside the tank. Well I finaly got my hands on a doner to do a little pre-investigation. I was suprised to see the screen was not something at the outlet pipe but rather a round plastic thing in the bottom with a hose running from it. I managed to take some pictures looking in from the sending guage hole and posted them here.
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=250205
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=250207
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=250208
Now I'm totally confused. The green hose comming off the screen is only about 6" long and doesn't seem to go anywhere.
Is this hose supposed to somehow connect to the outlet pipe? Seems like this is the only way to ensure the gas drawn out passed through the screen. Otherwise I don't see a purpose for it?
Am I missing the rest of my hose and some sort of connection on the other end?
Is this screen really needed?
What about just putting in the liner and letting it cover the screen?
One option I considered if I don't use the screen is to install an inline filter between the tank and the pump. Another list member noted that pre-pump filters can cause problems if they get clogged such as vapor lock, fuel starvation and all sorts of inconsistent running problems. I guess you could mitigate this by changing the filter often.
Any insight appreciated. I'm not really sure where to go from here. I guess one option if the tank itself isn't leaking is to replace the cross-over pipe and seals and leave the actual tank for a later day. I'd much prefer to restore a good used tank if possible than buy a new one. My understanding is the only new ones available are made in China and is prone to rust quickly.
Thanks,
Mike
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