Gas Tank and Original Gauge - oops!

[chetbrz]

I reported previously that I reinstalled my gas tank with the replica Ford tank gauge.  This didn't go well for two reasons.  The cork float was no longer functional and able to float the gauge.  Also the Flange that holds the gauge in place was leaking.  It appears that it was sealed with either body filler or JB Weld.  I have found that regular JB Weld does not hold up with constant exposure to gasoline.  So since I had to remove the tank and drill out the flange rivets to clean all the flange surfaces.  I decided to replace the gauge with the original gauge I acquired some time ago.  I ordered new float material from Restoration Supply and have 3mm thick 2.5" diameter glass on its way.  I was thinking of soldering the flange but I would probably loosen other soldered areas in the process.  I settled on Permatex Gasket solution that is resistant to all automotive fuels.  If it doesn't hold up over time I can always try something else.  The tank comes out pretty easily. 

Cleaning off all the old bondo or JB Weld took some time but everything is ready to go back together.  I just need to get all the parts / gaskets together.



Any suggestions would be appreciated.  As always I'll keep you informed both good and bad.

[Articifer Tom]

You'll need a couple cork gaskets for top and under gauge . I may had tried cork for gasket on flange also . The newer with rubberized fill . Also Seal-All is fuel resistant . As a consistency of silicone caulk . Henry Bolen made a new gauge face for his , may have it on cad if it would help you .

[chetbrz]

Thanks Tom,

I am using the 1/16" rubber gasket material to seal the gauge and glass (2 gaskets).  I also have some tough/thin chemical resistant material for under the metal bracket.  I have a tube of Seal-All that I will use to cover the outer flange.  In retrospect I probably should have used a gasket for the flange but the neck side didn't seem to have one, but you are right, it would have made for a better seal.  Too late now, I'll let the Permatex dry for 48 hours before applying the Seal-All.  Hopefully it will be OK, since it isn't submerged in gasoline. 

[Articifer Tom]

1/16 th maybe to thin for the dial to spin . Think my cork was 1/8th to let needle move freely . Keep up good work . You should be driving it up to Hershey in Fall .

[chetbrz]

1/16 th maybe to thin for the dial to spin . Think my cork was 1/8th to let needle move freely ...

You're probably right.  I might have some 1/8" cork laying around.  Hershey would be fun but if I came up there it would probably rain for 3 days. 
Just Murphy's Law "Whatever will go wrong.., will go wrong".

[chetbrz]

I installed my gas tank and filled it with approximately 6 gallons of gas.  According to the Plymouth Instruction Book the tank should hold 11 gallons.  My newly installed old gauge reads a notch over 1/2 a Tank.  Boy it's great having a working gas gauge again.   

[Articifer Tom]

Your spoiling your self . Although I still managed to run out once with the wife . I no longer need to remember to check the gage  . Lets say I am reminded x4 .
  Do not forget to use marine stabile w vapor-off technology . Kept rust from tank last two years especially with tenne coat of sheet metal tank being gone .

[jjohn]

We used this to protect the gas tank inside coating
https://www.por15.com/POR-15-Fuel-Tank-Sealer

[chetbrz]

We used this to protect the gas tank inside coating
https://www.por15.com/POR-15-Fuel-Tank-Sealer

JJ

That's good stuff.  I used a similar product in my 48 Ply in 2005 and it is doing fine, no leaks.