Q&A for How to Seal a Plastic Gas Tank

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  • Question
    Is Flex Seal gasoline resistant?
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    According to the manufacturer’s website, Flex Seal is not a good choice for sealing gasoline tanks. It’s not made to withstand a lot of heat or pressure, and it’s not recommended for use with flammable liquids, such as gasoline.
  • Question
    How do you fix a plastic gas tank on a lawnmower?
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    A fiberglass repair patch will work well for this job. Drain the tank and let it dry completely first, and don’t forget to sand the area around the leak or hole so that the adhesive compound can adhere properly.
  • Question
    Will Teflon tape seal in gasoline?
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    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
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    No, the gasoline will eventually break down the tape. If you want a quick and easy fix, a fiberglass patch is a better option.
  • Question
    Can I use JB Weld on a gas tank?
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    J-B Weld can be used for a temporary wet repair to a gas tank. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be sure to treat this as a temporary fix before replacing your gas tank, as it’s only a short-term patch-up solution.
  • Question
    Is J-B plastic weld gas resistant?
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    According to the manufacturer’s website, "When fully cured, J-B Weld is completely resistant to water, gasoline, and about every other petroleum product or automotive chemical."
  • Question
    What type of plastic is used in fuel tanks?
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    The main type of plastic used in fuel tanks is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and this shaped by a process known as "blow molding" (Wikipedia). Other plastics that may be present in fuel tanks include: Polypropylene (PP), regrind plastic (recycled polyethylene) and possibly plastic adhesives.
  • Question
    How do you fix a leak in a gas tank?
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    This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
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    It is recommended that you follow the steps above, which explain how to seal small holes and tears. If the hole or tear is large, it is likely beyond repair and will need to be replaced.
  • Question
    Can a seam in a lawnmower's plastic fuel tank be repaired using a hot glue gun?
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    Probably not. The best way to repair is a plastic welder with a plastic rod that matches the plastic of the tank.
  • Question
    Can I seal a plastic gas tank with fiber glass?
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    Yes. Use a product called Tiger Paste, which is fiberglass and resin all in one. The tank MUST be clean of all dirt, grease and oil. Seal the entire tank except for filler and any vent pipes, or pick up tube openings.
  • Question
    What grit of sandpaper should I use to sand a plastic fuel tank?
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    You should use 80 or 100 grit sandpaper. 60 grit will work, as well. The idea is to scuff the area, so that the epoxy will have a stronger bond.
  • Question
    Will Flex Shot seal a crack in a plastic gas tank?
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    It is doubtful because the gasoline will likely dissolve the adhesive in short time, as well as the rubber portion of that stuff. Epoxy or plastic welding are the best options.
  • Question
    Where can I purchase a plastic welder?
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    Community Answer
    Plastic welders are quite expensive. Unless you're going to start a tank repair business, it may be smarter to rent one. If you really want to purchase one, there are many to choose from online.
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