Plastic gas tanks are in high demand in the world of motorcycle racing and ATV enthusiasts. A plastic gas tank can weigh less than half of a comparable metal gas tank and it is easy to mold into shapes to fit odd configurations. Seamless gas tanks seldom leak and are impervious to the rust and corrosion that affect metal tanks. If a plastic fuel tank does sustain small holes or tears, there are several fairly easy ways to make the repair.
StepsMethod 1Method 1 of 3:Seal Plastic Gas Tank with Epoxy Glue
1Drain the gasoline from the tank and allow it to dry. Sand the area around the hole or crack, and clean the area with a shop cloth saturated with rubbing alcohol.X
2Mix the 2 part epoxy together and apply all around the perimeter of the opening.X Cut a fiberglass patch large enough to cover the opening and overlap it.
3Place the fiberglass patch over the hole and press into the epoxy. Apply more epoxy to the patch and surrounding area, pressing firmly to saturate the patch.
4Allow to dry, sand the patched area smooth and spray paint with a plastic paint if desired.Method 2Method 2 of 3:Seal Plastic Gas Tank with a Plastic Welder
1Buy or rent a plastic welder. Tell the salesperson what you are doing with it to ensure that you get the correct rods.
2Remove the plastic gas tank from the vehicle, and set it up in a secure welding area. Drain the gasoline from the tank, and allow it to dry both inside and outside. Don protective eye gear, a welding helmet and welding gloves.
3Use a plastic welding rod made specially for this purpose, and fill in the crack or hole. Start at an edge and run the bead completely around the opening. Then begin crossing over the hole, allowing the rod to fill in the hole completely.X
4Allow the weld to set up, sand it smooth and, if desired, paint it with plastic spray paint.
5Replace the repaired plastic fuel tank on the vehicle.Method 3Method 3 of 3:Seal Plastic Gas Tank with a Soldering Gun
1Drain the gas tank, and clean it inside and out with soapy water.X Lightly sand the perimeter of the area to be repaired.
2Cut a plastic patch, made of a similar material to the gas tank, slightly larger than the hole to be repaired.
3Heat up an electric soldering gun, and drag it around the edge of the crack to create a trench. Move the gun from side to side to push the plastic back into the trench. While the plastic is still soft from the soldering, lay the plastic patch over the area. Continue moving the soldering gun over the area to smooth the plastic, and fuse them together.X
4Allow to cool and dry completely. Mix a 2 part epoxy glue, and cover the entire area of the patch.X Allow to set up, sand and spray on a coat of plastic paint if desired.
