I'm ordering a new spectra fuel tank for my 90 xj. I've patched the original from "rust outs". First time it lasted about two years, then six months, then about six hrs. The last patch was a different product and method. Also, the most expensive. Of coarse the leak was at its worst too.
my question is: Is it worth the effort to spray primer on the outside of the new tank to avoid rust? I've done research to read that regular paint wont stay on due to expansion / contraction ECT. I read that its fine with any paint, or that the tank should already be galvanized (read nothing about the tank I ordered being galvanized). I know there's products specifically for this type of thing, or "creaming a tank" (coating the inside). But I'm not trying to go that far. Simply want to know if primer actually stays on the tank for a long time. My apologies for rambling on.

 

If you haven't ordered the tank look in to the 97+ gas tank swap its plastic.

 

Not familiar on how tanks expand and contract but wondering if POR 15 would work on the outside. I believe it to be flexible. With the a new tank not in the Jeep would be a piece of cake to do.

 

por15 only sticks good to rust,Clean metal it will flake off over time.

 

Any chassis paint should work. VHT and Eastwood sell chassis paint. The VHT does not require primer. Maybe even a coat of undercoat. I've had good experiences with rustoleum professional formula undercoat.

 

I painted mine about 2 years ago when I removed it to fix fuel pump sending unit. It had some rust spots that I treated by sanding them down a little and then using a rust converter. Then I painted everything with Rustoleum Hammered paint that I had left over from another project.

It has lasted well enough but for a few spots that have been scratched by road debris - they are rusting again. But hey, the tank was replaced by the previous owner in 2006, so 10 years is not bad.

 

I think that's the best solution, but I have searched for polyethylene tanks and have not found any offered for sale. If you know of a source, please share it.

 

Proper prep usually prevents this.

 

I would suggest buying a used poly tank. Some of the asking prices on eBay are a bit crazy though. Not sure what a scrapyard would charge. I have one that I'm not even sure what to sell it for. Maybe $50. But I wouldn't be able to ship it. I would rather see it put to use than sit around here. Also check Craigslist and the forums near you for part outs.

 

Given the fact our gas is laced with H2O, I'm gonna say no.

 

Actually just checked my part out thread. Asking $25 for the tank. But I'm in the middle of no where so no hits on it yet.

 

What about coating the new metal tank with rubberized undercoating or some sort of rubber bedliner material?

Max

 

The tank is ordered. Need the xj back on the road asap. Its my d.d. Work horse. Using the zj to get to work but that's supposed to be the family vehicle. I come across a lot of paint thru work but its mostly house paint, or primer in a spray can. My hood is painted with house paint, and it hasn't flaked off from heat for years now. Thanks to all for your input so far.

 

Just grab a can of rustoleum either Bedliner or undercoat. It's cheap and any paint will at least be a little better than no paint.

 

I agree Waynerd. Good luck on selling parts.