Autolite 1100 on 200 inline six

[bmbm40]

If you can find a radiator shop that is where I had one cleaned out before. Like in 1989 or something.

 

[DON]

I think I would physically look at the inside of the tank. If new it shouldn’t need cleaning. The fuel lines would be suspect

 

[Frank]

I cleaned out old metal tank-to-pump fuel lines by removing the line at the tank (was installing new tank anyway) and spraying brake cleaner spray into the line in the front, followed by compressed air. Continue process until it blows out clean at the rear. . Not as effective as replacing the line, but works well enough. On that vehicle I then used an inline filter before the pump. Normally the inline filter should be after the pump, as gas "boils" into vapor at a relatively low vacuum. Better for physics and the pump to have the filter on the pressure side of the system. After about one tank of gas consumed, any remaining light debris from the line is 95% cleared out. After a couple of tanks I replaced the inline filter, moving it to the carb side of the pump and no further issues.

Replace any rubber line too, if its old. Alcohol is hard on the system. (don't forget the short rubber piece at the tank).

 

[Gervill47]

Gentlemen, appreciate our prompt response. I will endeavor to do as indicated. Thanks again

 

[drag-200stang]

Kids have been known for putting dirt in gas tanks.

 

[Gervill47]

Hello of of you that have supported my effort. I decided to play it safe and remove the fuel tank to ensure that is clean.. Reason is that after I tune the cat with the existing Autolite carb I will be installing a tri power Offenhauser so I want to make sure that the tree carbs will be free of debris from the tank. Easier said than done. Whoever installed the tank in 2020 the y used, I Think PVC cement and the tank is stuck and cemented in the frame of the car where the tank goes. I am using Isopropyl alcohol to see if I can soften the joints and pull the tank away. If this becomes a real issue then I am planning to replace the sender unit and in that hole see is if I can clean any garbage that was left behind after draining the tank.
Can any of you recommend anything with regard to the removal of the tank?
Appreciate your comments

 

[frozenrabbit]

I'd take a heat gun to it, looks like silicone bathtub caulk.

 

[Otto]

I'd take a heat gun to it, looks like silicone bathtub caulk.

It does look like silicone; that's unfortunate. Maybe get a putty knife under it if you can. It might be possible to cut some of that with piano wire or guitar strings.
Once you get it out, use some 3M Strip Caulk instead of silicone to install it.

 

[awasson]

I tend to agree. Piano wire or a guitar string will be about the best way to cut a silicone bonded tank free.

 

[Gervill47]

Thank you. The tank has been drained of all of the fuel six days back and it is all dried. Is it safe to apply heat with a heat gun to the edges of the tank to soften the seals where it sits in the car's frame? I was able to partially introduce a borescope an take pictures as shown. Tank is pretty dirty and it seems that is from the fuel. So I have to have it cleaned. Please your comments regarding the heat gun application

 

[Frank]

Tank looks really bad for as "new" as it is. . . Just helped a friend get his big generator going. Carb was all gummed up. . Alcohol in gas is ok for daily use, but when it sits its destructive in many ways.

Be overly careful with heat of any kind. Don't make a spark either when it comes loose. . I've seen guys fill the tank with water. This flushes all the vapor out. The weight may help it break loose when you start releasing the silicone too. Not a recommendation per se, just info.

 

[Otto]

How is your aversion to risk? Sometimes an empty gas tank is more dangerous than a full one.

Since this is a Mustang, here's what I would try: if you have a floor jack, place a piece of plywood on the jack saddle and with the tank's bolts out, put some upward pressure on the tank. Don't cave it in, just a little upward pressure. Then try to cut the sealer and pry the tank up and out.

It looks pretty bad inside to me and with the availability of aftermarket sources of new tanks I don't think I would spend a lot of time on it.

 

[frozenrabbit]

As dirty as the tank is inside, I'd fill it with water.