How to Clean a Rusty Lawn Mower Gas Tank?

The satisfying roar of a lawnmower is a summer soundtrack, but that music can turn to a sputtering, coughing mess if your gas tank is rusted. A rusty tank can restrict fuel flow, leading to poor performance, hard starting, and even engine damage. But don’t despair! This guide will walk you through the process of cleaning a rusty lawn mower gas tank, restoring it to its former glory, and ensuring your mower runs smoothly for years to come. We’ll cover everything from assessing the damage to choosing the right cleaning methods and ultimately, putting your restored tank back into service.

In essence, cleaning a rusty lawn mower gas tank involves removing the rust and debris, and then sealing the tank to prevent further corrosion. This can be done using a variety of methods, from simple cleaning with vinegar to more intense approaches like sandblasting.

Assessing the Damage

Before diving into cleaning, it’s essential to assess the extent of the rust. This will help you determine the best cleaning approach and whether you need any additional tools or materials. Here’s how:

1. Inspect the Tank:

  • Visual Inspection: Examine the tank for rust spots, pitting, and holes. Look both inside and out.
  • Shake Test: Shake the tank gently. If you hear rattling or a loose, gritty sound, it indicates rust flakes are present.
  • Metal Thickness Check: If rust is extensive, use a metal thickness gauge to check if the metal has become thin or compromised.

2. Classify the Rust:

  • Surface Rust: This is the most common type and is usually a thin layer of rust on the tank’s surface. It can be cleaned using relatively simple methods.
  • Pitting Rust: This involves deeper rust pits that eat away at the metal. It might require more aggressive cleaning techniques.
  • Heavy Rust: This involves significant rust accumulation, potentially causing holes or severe metal thinning. It might necessitate tank replacement.

Cleaning Techniques

Once you’ve assessed the damage, you can choose the appropriate cleaning method. Here are a few options:

1. Vinegar Cleaning:

  • Suitable for: Surface rust
  • Materials: White vinegar, a container large enough to hold the tank, rubber gloves, and safety goggles.
  • Procedure:
    1. Fill the container with white vinegar.
    2. Submerge the tank in the vinegar, ensuring it’s fully covered.
    3. Let it soak for 24-48 hours, or until the rust loosens.
    4. Remove the tank and scrub it with a stiff brush or a wire brush to remove any remaining rust.
    5. Rinse the tank thoroughly with water.
    6. Repeat if necessary.

2. Commercial Rust Remover:

  • Suitable for: Surface and some pitting rust
  • Materials: Commercial rust remover, rubber gloves, safety goggles, and a container.
  • Procedure:
    1. Follow the instructions on the rust remover product carefully. Most solutions involve soaking the tank in the remover for a specified duration.
    2. Rinse the tank thoroughly with water after the treatment.

3. Sandblasting:

  • Suitable for: Pitting and heavy rust
  • Materials: Sandblasting equipment, sand, protective gear, and a well-ventilated area.
  • Procedure:
    1. Wear proper safety gear, including a respirator, goggles, and gloves.
    2. Use a sandblasting machine to remove the rust. This technique blasts sand at high pressure to remove the rust effectively.
    3. Be careful not to damage the tank’s metal.

4. Other Techniques:

  • Chemical Cleaning: Use a chemical cleaner designed for removing rust, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Electrolysis: This method uses an electric current to remove rust. However, it requires specific equipment and expertise.

Sealing the Tank

After cleaning, it’s crucial to seal the tank to prevent future rust formation. Here are some options:

1. Epoxy Coating:

  • Pros: Durable, long-lasting, and resistant to fuel and moisture.
  • Procedure: Apply epoxy coating to the interior of the tank, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Tip: Be sure to let the epoxy cure completely before using the tank.

2. Rust Converter:

  • Pros: Converts rust into a protective layer, preventing further rusting.
  • Procedure: Apply the rust converter to the cleaned tank and allow it to dry.

3. Tank Liner:

  • Pros: Provides a protective layer that prevents rust formation and seals any pinholes.
  • Procedure: Install the tank liner following the manufacturer’s instructions. This often involves applying a liquid liner that dries to form a protective layer.

Safety Precautions

Cleaning a rusty lawn mower gas tank requires handling potentially hazardous materials. It’s crucial to take the following safety precautions:

  • Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator when handling chemicals or performing sanding or blasting.
  • Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure adequate ventilation when using chemicals or performing sandblasting.
  • Avoid Contact with Skin: Avoid direct contact with chemicals or rust dust. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling any of these materials.
  • Store Chemicals Properly: Store cleaning chemicals and rust converters in their original containers, away from heat and direct sunlight.

Putting the Tank Back Into Service

Once the tank is cleaned and sealed, you can reassemble it back into your lawn mower. However, before adding fuel, it’s essential to thoroughly rinse the tank with water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or rust converter residue. This will prevent contamination of your fuel and ensure optimal engine performance.

Conclusion:

Cleaning a rusty lawn mower gas tank is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to choose the right cleaning method based on the extent of the rust and follow safety precautions. By taking the time to clean and seal your tank, you’ll ensure your lawn mower operates smoothly and efficiently, providing you with years of trouble-free mowing. Remember, prevention is key, so regularly inspect your gas tank for signs of rust and take action to protect it before it becomes a major problem.

FAQs

1. What are the Signs of a Rusty Lawn Mower Gas Tank?

If your lawn mower is having trouble starting, running poorly, or the fuel is discolored, these could be signs of rust in the gas tank. The rust can clog the fuel lines, restrict fuel flow, and cause damage to the engine. You may also see rust flakes in the fuel, or feel rust particles when you shake the tank.

Checking your gas tank regularly for rust can prevent further damage to your lawnmower. If you see any signs of rust, it’s important to clean the tank promptly to avoid further deterioration.

2. Why Does Rust Form in Lawn Mower Gas Tanks?

Rust forms in lawn mower gas tanks due to moisture. When water or condensation accumulates in the tank, it reacts with the metal, causing corrosion. This is especially common in areas with high humidity or if the lawnmower is stored outdoors.

Properly storing your lawn mower with a full tank of fuel can help prevent condensation and minimize the risk of rust formation.

3. What are the Dangers of Using a Rusty Gas Tank?

Using a rusty gas tank can cause various problems for your lawnmower. Rust particles can clog the fuel lines, carburetor, and other engine components, leading to engine damage, poor performance, and even engine failure.

It’s crucial to address the rust issue as soon as possible to avoid potential engine damage and costly repairs. Cleaning the tank can restore its functionality and protect your lawnmower’s engine from further harm.

4. What Supplies Do I Need to Clean a Rusty Lawn Mower Gas Tank?

Cleaning a rusty lawnmower gas tank requires a few essential supplies. You’ll need a cleaning solution, such as vinegar or a commercial gas tank cleaner, a container to hold the cleaning solution, a cleaning brush, and a funnel.

Optional supplies include gloves, safety glasses, and a drain pan to catch any excess cleaning solution.

5. How to Clean a Rusty Lawn Mower Gas Tank?

To clean a rusty gas tank, start by draining the old fuel and removing any debris. Then, fill the tank with a cleaning solution, such as vinegar or a commercial gas tank cleaner, and allow it to soak for several hours or overnight.

After soaking, shake the tank vigorously to loosen the rust and drain the cleaning solution. Repeat the process as needed until the rust is gone. Finally, rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water and dry it completely before reinstalling it.

6. What if the Rust is Too Heavy?

If the rust is too heavy to remove with a cleaning solution, you may need to use a wire brush or a rotary tool with a wire brush attachment to scrape the rust off. However, if the tank is heavily corroded, it may be better to replace it entirely.

Inspect the tank for any holes or significant damage. If you notice any, it’s best to replace the tank to prevent potential leaks and further damage to your lawnmower.

7. What Can I Do to Prevent Rust in the Future?

To prevent rust in your lawnmower gas tank, keep it clean and dry. Always drain the tank before storing the mower for long periods, and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel deterioration. You can also consider using a fuel additive that inhibits rust formation.

Storing your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area can also help prevent moisture buildup and rust.

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