So, you’ve owned your car for about ten years, or your car is at least ten years old. If that is the case, you should keep your eye on the health of your fuel tank. After about ten years of wear and tear, your metal gas tank is prone to corrosion, and a leaky fuel tank is just downright dangerous.
If your fuel tank is plastic, you may have a bit more time before you consider replacing it, but still be cautious of shock and extreme temperatures, as they can shorten the lifespan of your plastic fuel tank.
If the time has come for you to replace your fuel tank, there are some things you must consider. You can’t just choose any old fuel tank. You must find one made from the proper material that fits your vehicle and driving conditions. If you’re looking for a new fuel tank, keep reading to learn which one is best!
METAL V.S. POLYETHYLENE GAS TANKS
There are two main types of fuel tanks: metal and polyethylene (a type of plastic).
When choosing a fuel tank, your goal is to find one that is dependable and affordable yet tough. In the past, most manufacturers outfitted their vehicles with steel-coated fuel tanks. While these fuel tanks were tough and reliable, they were also quite heavy.
In response to EPA regulations that call for more environmentally-friendly, efficient, and long-lasting fuel tanks, manufacturers started outfitting their vehicles with polyethylene fuel tanks, which are 20% lighter than steel tanks and just as reliable.
When deciding if you want a metal or polyethylene fuel tank, you must also ask some fundamental questions.
QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT YOUR REPLACEMENT FUEL TANK
You don’t want to base your decision on cost alone. If you simply go for the cheapest option, you may end up with a fuel tank that will waste your time and cost you more money in the long run. Here are some questions you can ask to ensure you’re investing in the right piece of equipment:
CAN YOU HAVE MECHANICAL DRAWINGS?
As mentioned, you want your replacement fuel tank to fit correctly. You need to ensure that the ports line up, that the cap will be in the right place, and that the straps are the correct length.
Mechanical drawings will let you know if your replacement fuel tank will fit just like the original. Ask the suppliers to fax or email the mechanical drawings to you.
Then, simply take a few minutes with a measuring tape and compare the two tanks’ designs. If the supplier doesn’t send you the mechanical drawings, walk away. It isn’t worth it.
HOW THICK IS THE MATERIAL OF THE FUEL TANK?
The material thickness will affect the durability and, ultimately, the longevity of your replacement fuel tank. Since the thickness of the material adds the most cost to a product, it may be the first step manufacturers take to cut corners.
WHAT TYPE OF COATING DOES THE MANUFACTURER USE?
Whether it’s sea salt from the coast or road salt from the Midwest, salt, in general, can be detrimental to your fuel tank. Ask the manufacturer what type of coatings they use on their fuel tanks. If it’s not rust-resistant, enamel-based paint, or a powder coat, you may want to reconsider purchasing a tank from them.
IS THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE TESTED?
You must ask the manufacturer if they conduct leak testing on their tanks. If they say yes, ensure that the test is 100% leak testing at five psi, not statistical process checking (SPC).
SPC means that the manufacturer takes a few random samples (fuel tanks) and pressure tests them. That means they don’t pressure test all their tanks. Do you want to risk receiving a tank that wasn’t pressure tested?
WHICH FUEL TANK IS BEST FOR YOU?
No matter what, your tank should look great. There should be no paint drips, scratches, scrapes, or dents. You should consider this and all the information provided in this blog when choosing the right fuel tank.
Remember, there are pros and cons to both metal and polyethylene tanks, so do your research on the manufacturers you’re buying from and take the necessary steps to ensure your new fuel tank will fit great and last for years to come.
FILL YOUR NEW FUEL TANK WITH HOME SERVICE OIL!
Whether you own a fleet of vehicles or need your farm equipment filled, Home Service Oil has you covered! We offer bulk fuel delivery, amongst many other services as well. If you have any questions about what we have to offer, click here to send us your information, and we’ll get in contact with you as soon as possible. Don’t miss out on the benefits of bulk fuel delivery. Fill up today!