Soldering up a steel gas tank

[seakaye12]

Hello All….
I recently acquired a few Scott Atwater motors from the late 40’s…..which are notorious for swiss-cheese gas tanks. Mine are no exception. They leak at the seams and pretty much everywhere else…due to rust.

Is it difficult to repair them using solder? The Scott Atwater manual talks about repairing leaks and filling in dents with solder….as if it was a procedure that people did every day. Maybe in the 40’s they did 🙂

Anyone have guidelines for what the procedure is? I’ve looked for videos but so far have not seen anything that helps much. I would like to know what type of solder is used….what the best heat source is…..etc.

Thanks everyone,
Chuck in Santa Barbara

[green-thumbs]

I would see if there is a tank and radiator shop in area.Repairing a steel tank may have a steep learning curve unless you already have some developed skills in this area. Would a Pour in and Slosh around product do the job? Motorcycle shops are said to be strong on that method. Be of an open mind both for suggestions and advice offered here and locally available options.
Louis

[lyks2tinkr]

If they are tiny pin holes I would recommend Damon Redkote gas tank sealer.
My 31 Johnson OA55 steel tank had some pin holes and I used a few coats of sealer and it’s been great for going on 8 years.
What’s nice about the Redkote is it stays flexible.

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