Cleaning an old fuel tank

[JD546]

In relation to my last thread, the fuel tank on my vintage tc3 needs a good cleaning. What would be the best method?

 

[tudordewolf]

Denatured / isopropyl 99% / methyl alcohol, shake it around, pour it out. Should be pretty much all you need to do. Maybe let it sit a bit and shake it up again a few hours later if the residue is really thick.

 

[Tunedfrog]

Along with with @tudordewolf suggestion, I would also put a hand full of small nuts and bolts to help break it up.

 

[Grizz03]

I agree with @tudordewolf. I've also used my old nitro fuel (or new). It will also clean out and dissolve the old residue.

 

[JD546]

Thank you very much for the info, guys!

 

[Defiant]

Along with with @tudordewolf suggestion, I would also put a hand full of small nuts and bolts to help break it up.

Never thought of that! Sometimes there’s gooey old gunk built up deep where it’s tough to reach with tools. Might have to try this clever trick

 

[Tunedfrog]

Never thought of that! Sometimes there’s gooey old gunk built up deep where it’s tough to reach with tools. Might have to try this clever trick

I did this to a old lawn mower fuel tank. I don't remember what I used but after letting it sit for 24 hours and then shake the crap out of it, it cleans it well.

 

[WickedFog]

Along with with @tudordewolf suggestion, I would also put a hand full of small nuts and bolts to help break it up.

BB's might work as well. Good idear.

 

[NitroR/C]

Wurth brake cleaner.

 

[CookseyB]

I used denatured alcohol and a bunch of long q-tips. They bend easily and hold the form afterwards decently, enough to scrub the inner walls down. And used a safety pin for the fuel/exhaust exit holes. Mine came out spotless and very surprised since there was 20 yr old nitro buildup everywhere