Sealing a gas tank?

I have a new steel gas tank that is giving me fits. In this tank there is a level float that mounts into the tank with about a 2" inspection plate. This plate has a cork gasket but I can not get the thing to seal. I suspect the gas is wicking up the threads of the screws. Does anyone know a good product to seal up gas tank inspection plates? Something that doesn't wash away in gasoline?

Thanks!

-jim lee

 

I've heard of people using "aviation" gasket sealant on those, but you'd think some kind of compressible washer under the head of the (self tapping, I presume ?) screws might also help. Naturally it would need to be compatible with fuel.

 

How did you get a steel gas tank. These are not allowed under ABYC rules. The reason, over time any water in the tank will corrode the steel and cause a leak.
Ouch
There are internal coatings such as Mr E mentioned that I believe do pass the requirements but not in my office to check the ABYC manual

Additionally, cork gaskets are also not allowed due to the fact that over time the cork will disintegrate and cause leaks. Must be rubber, neoprene, again if I remember correctly. Sounds like you have an automotive float which often came with cork or cork rubber mix. When these failed, they are at least vented to atmosphere

(Steel gas tanks are allowed for diesel just not gasoline)

 

Haha! Whoa, easy there!

Its not actually in a boat, its in..



I figured the marine people would have better ideas than the auto people did.

-jim lee

 

Get rid of the cork gasket and use neoprene. The threads can be sealed with any soft setting gasket adhesive. Permatex® Form-A-Gasket® No. 2 Sealant - Permatex https://www.permatex.com/products/gasketing/gasket-sealants/permatex-form-a-gasket-no-2-sealant/

 

Sorry thought it was in a boat
Use Sealall. Coat everything
Screws, where the wire attaches etc
Should last over 10 years

 

If the gas is wicking up the threads, remove the screws and apply some Loctite 577 (pipe sealant).

 

Use screws with a visible shank, not fully threaded to the head. This will prevent the liquid from using capillary action to commute up the threads, through the gasket. Second is the neoprene gasket recommendation. Loctite 577 is a good option on the threads, though an appropriate installation would only need Loctite 243 (general purpose thread locker) to cope with vibration.

 

Hey CDK i have some engineer questions about the control unit of a boat. I could not find out how to send you a private message so could you send me one of email me at starracar@Aol.com