Imagine cruising down the open road with the wind in your hair, the engine humming smoothly, and the freedom of the journey ahead. Now, picture that perfect drive being interrupted by the sudden sputtering of your vehicle due to a rusty gas tank.
When you clean your gas tank, it’s important to find a way to keep it from rusting because doing so is not just about preserving your vehicle’s performance; it’s about ensuring the longevity of your investment and the safety of your travels.
So, how do you keep your gas tank from rusting after cleaning?
- By drying the gas tank completely
- By using a fuel tank sealer
- By storing the tank in a dry environment if it’s not going to be used immediately
- By filling the tank with fuel
- By adding a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline, and
- By adding a rust inhibitor to the fuel
How to Keep Gas Tank From Rusting After Cleaning
Here are the different methods that you can use to keep your gas tank from rusting after cleaning:
Method 1: Completely Dry the Tank
One of the best ways to keep your gas tank from rusting after cleaning is by making sure the tank is completely dry. After cleaning the tank, make sure to drain all cleaning fluids from the tank.
You should blow compressed air into the tank to remove any residual moisture. You can use a portable air compressor like the DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor.
You can also use a heat gun or a hairdryer to thoroughly dry the interior. Move the heat source around to ensure all areas are dry. To achieve this success, you can use The Wagner Spraytech Heat Gun. It is a very reliable option for this task.
Method 2: Apply a Fuel Tank Sealer
Another procedure to keep your car’s gas tank from rusting is by applying a fuel tank sealer. All you have to do is to choose a high-quality fuel tank sealer.
POR-15 Fuel Tank Sealer is a popular choice known for its durability and effectiveness. You can get it and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prepare it and seal the tank.
Pour the sealer into the tank and slowly rotate the tank to ensure the sealer coats all interior surfaces. Make sure the entire inside is covered. Pour out any excess sealer and let the tank sit to allow the sealer to cure as per the product’s instructions.
Method 3: Store the Tank in a Dry Environment
While this might not always be the case, if you don’t intend to use the tank immediately after cleaning, it is wise to store it in a dry environment.
Select a dry, well-ventilated area to store the tank. You can consider a garage with humidity control.
Place Dry & Dry Silica Gel Desiccant Packs inside the tank to absorb any moisture. Make sure to use enough packs based on the size of the tank and seal any openings in the tank with plastic caps or covers to prevent moisture from entering.
Method 4: Fill the Tank with Fuel
After cleaning the tank, instead of leaving it to be covered with moisture, you can decide to fill the tank with fuel. All you have to do is to use high-quality fuel from a reputable source to fill the tank. You must ensure the fuel is fresh to avoid contamination.
Fill the tank completely to minimize the amount of air inside, which can carry moisture and promote rust formation, and secure the gas cap tightly to prevent air from entering.
Method 5: Add a Fuel Stabilizer
This method involves adding a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. All you have to do is choose a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading. STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer is widely used by many and is highly effective.
Make sure to follow the instructions to measure the correct amount of stabilizer for your tank size, then pour the stabilizer into the tank before filling it with fuel to ensure it mixes well.
If possible, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilizer through the fuel system.
Method 6: Use Rust Inhibitors
If you wish to use this method to prevent your gas tank from rusting after cleaning, then you can choose a rust inhibitor specifically designed for fuel systems. The CRC Marine Fuel Stabilizer and Rust Inhibitor is a good option for this method.
You can measure the appropriate amount based on your tank size and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use it in your gas tank.
These are the different methods to keep your gas tank from rusting after cleaning. However, you should regularly check the tank for any signs of rust or corrosion. A monthly inspection routine is recommended.
While performing the inspection, you can use a flexible inspection light to see inside the tank. The Neiko 40447A Rechargeable Underhood Work Light can be helpful.
If any rust is detected, take immediate action by draining the tank, cleaning the affected area, and reapplying a sealer or inhibitor.
Why You Must Avoid Rust in Your Gas Tank
Here are reasons why you must at all costs avoid rust in your gas tank:
- To Preserve the Quality of Your Fuel: Rust can contaminate the fuel, leading to poor combustion and decreased engine efficiency. However, contaminated fuel can clog fuel injectors and fuel lines, reducing the overall performance of the vehicle.
- To Prolong Your Engine Life: Rust particles can cause wear and tear on the engine components. However, cleaning fuel ensures smoother operation, reducing the risk of engine damage and costly repairs.
- To Avoid Fuel System Blockages: Rust can clog fuel filters and lines, disrupting fuel flow. These blockages can lead to engine stalling, misfires, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
- To Prevent the Speed of the Corrosion: Rust in the gas tank can spread to other parts of the fuel system. However, preventing rust in the tank will help to protect the entire fuel system, including the fuel pump and injectors.
- To Ensure Safety: Rust can weaken the gas tank, leading to possible leaks. Leaking fuel poses a huge fire hazard, making rust prevention important for your car’s safety.
- To Maintain Your Car’s Resale Value: A well-maintained, rust-free gas tank can increase the resale value of the vehicle. Buyers prefer vehicles with clean and well-maintained fuel systems, improving the vehicle’s market value.
Conclusion
You can follow any of the methods explained in this article to prevent your gas tank from rusting after cleaning. You can either apply a fuel tank sealer, store the tank properly, or use fuel stabilizers and rust inhibitors to keep rust at bay in your gas tank. Afterward, you can gear up and hit the road with confidence, knowing that your gas tank is well-protected and ready for the journey ahead.
