Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

Hi

checking over the fuel tank prior to re-installing it. It had a painted symbol on it stating "pressure tested" but did not state the pressure. Any ideas what that might be? It is not the idea shape to subject to to high a pressure. Has any one used the Frosts tanks sealant kit POR 15 repair kit S-208. It is a 4 part kit. The various parts can be bought and used separately. Commnets on any of the parts would be interesting.

looking forward to any comments

regards

Bob

Not an answer to your question but....

I can't imagine that tank is subjected to much pressure assuming that the breathers are not blocked...

Peter

Hi Bob,

I took my tank down to a local firm that does repairs for radiators and pressure vessels from lorries and coaches etc. They had a tank big enough to leave it soaking overnight, they then cleaned and pressure tested it for me. Glad I had it done though as he found and repaired a small split in the bottom. They even sprayed the tank for me, all for ?40 .

Chris.

Bob, when I replaced the petrol tank on my S4 about 15yrs ago it had a "pressure tested" sticker on it. It was either to 1.5 or 3 psi - can't remember which, and as the sticker is underneath the tank it's a bit tricky to go and have a look. As Peter says though I can't imagine there's much pressure involved unless the breather is blocked.

Sealing of tanks is something that's common practice in the classic motorcycle world but none of my bike tanks have needed it so I've no personal experience of using any of the many products on the market. There is some talk about fuel with added ethanol causing problems with some of them so it might be worth checking this out before using it. POR 15 seems to be one of the better ones though.

I think that this was the original stencilled test notice Bob.

Mark

Hi Everyone

I can confirm that the "Pressured Tested to 0.3KG/cm2" as posted by Mark is the original stencilling

Regards
Andy

0.3 kg/cm2 is equivalent to a 3m column of water. This was the "proof" pressure test applied to the tank after fabrication to test joints etc. I would suggest any service test should not exceed 2m, or 6 feet. Of course a bung for the filler will be needed plus some plastic hose to provide the 2m of head.

This should easily be done without involving any outside specialist. Repairs of course are another matter...

Regards
Gerry

Bob,
I've used the POR 15 gas tank sealant, and it's working well for me - no sign of degradation after 2 years. But you need to thoroughly clean out the tank before applying, and it's important to get the sealer in all the little nooks and crannies.

Bob,

I was a Por-15 rep for ten years. I still use their products on my cars and know people that have use Por products on Pebble Beach cars. I have developed methods for the finishes that come out sweet sweeter than Kansas corn.

Concerning your tank. The Por-15 kit works well. But I have to tell you guys that if I have an engine build that just cost me $6K I'm buying a new tank............period. I only wish someone was making stainless tanks. Unless I've missed them. The aluminum is nice but I prefer a hefty wall thickness.

Mike

Thanks 4 all the comments

Chris where did You get your tank done? It might not B 2 far from me. I have been trying to send you a PM to ask but they seem to be piling up in the outbox. (sent one to the administrator to see what is wrong but thats in the outbox as well!!)

once again thanks for all the useful replies

cheers

bob

Bob, they sit in the outbox until the recipent opens the email.

Regards
Gerry

Thanks Gerry

Didn't realise where the outbox was and how it worked -- do now (I think)

Bob

Hi folks

Took my tank to the guy tcsoar (see earlier post used) in EPC in Romford he checked it out, and there was a small rust spot on the outside that he sealed and pressure tested and then painted. Inside tanks looked very clean and rust free. I suspect rust was the result of damp on outside trapped in the sound absorbing lining rather than internal corrosion.
thanks for all the help

cheers

Bob