If you have an old car sitting around you may need to clean the gas tank. This can be stressful especially if you have no idea where to begin. You can always hire a professional to clean it for you, but if your on a tight budget that might not be possible. When you need to clean your gas tank there are certain precautions and steps that you need to take in order to do it properly and safely.

Step 1:
Find your vehicle Manual. Find your vehicle manual to learn exactly how each part is connected and how the gas tank should be removed. Every car is different so it is important to follow the instructions carefully.

Step 2:
Drive your car. Before you clean your gas tank, make sure there is little to no gas in the car. Drive your car to burn any left over gas, if necessary. While you are out, stop at an auto parts store and pick up some fuel tank cleaner.

Step 3:
Remove the tank, per the instruction manual. Make sure that your tank is empty.

Step 4:
Fill the tank with fuel tank cleaner. Follow the instructions on the bottle. Depending on the size of your tank, you may need more or less cleaner. In some cases you will need to dilute the cleaner with one or two gallons of water. Follow the instructions to be sure you use the right amount.

Step 5:
Let the cleaner sit in order for the solution to remove grime, rust and other deposites attached to the walls of the gas tank.

Step 6:
Hose the tank out. Once the tank has been sitting, you will then need to hose it out. You will notice a lot of rust, and other debris drain from the tank. Repeat the first few steps over again until nothing comes out of the tank. Rinse the tank a few extra times just to be sure that it’s completely clean.

Step 7:
Allow the tank to dry. You will need to allow your gas tank to dry for 24 to 48 hours. Be sure your tank is completely dry before reinstalling it. Shake it around to see if there is any water left inside. The tank needs to be completely empty and dry before it is put back on. Some people like to hang the tank up to dry to speed up the process.

Source: eHow.com

 

good stuff. i have never bothered cleaning a gas tank but what can go wrong if i dont ever clean it?