On 29 Mar 2008 10:10:43 -0400, Marc Auslander
wrote:

I have a 20 year old diesel tank that has a small leak at or near a
bottom weld.

I've been thinking of taking it to a heliarc welder to attempt a
repair.

Comments?

Others have commented on the possibility that extensive corrosion may
exist. I'd like to comment on the heliarc.

If you can find a welder stupid enough to attempt to weld on your fuel
tank I strongly suggest that you do not stand around to watch.
There is a good possibility that the thing will explode unless fairly
extensive cleaning methods are used.

As I remember it, the USAF's procedure was to drain and wash the tank,
inside and out, using a strong soap solution; then steam clean the
inside of the tank for 30 minutes; then make the weld while the tank
was still hot from the steaming. If the tank cooled off during the
repair it had to be re-steamed.


Bruce-in-Bangkok
(correct email address for reply)