Diesel RVs: RE: [diesel_mercedes] OT (Sorta) Cleaning GAS tank gunk

I have not seen this before; I have heard of varnish.

If it is a moving goo, I’d try to first remove it by gravity. See if it will move toward the largest opening you have (filler or gas gauge hole in tank top?) Set the tank on its side and see if the goo with settle there in a day, If so, then set it, top down, on two large blocks with a pan under the outlet.

When all the goo is out, use fresh gasoline (I hear Chevron gold? is he best solvent) to dissolve what may be left.

Keep us posted. Bill in Oregon

From: diesel_mercedes@yahoogroups.com [mailto:diesel_mercedes@yahoogroups.com]
Sent: Thursday, June 05, 2014 11:20 AM
To: diesel mercedes
Subject: [diesel_mercedes] OT (Sorta) Cleaning GAS tank gunk

Hello,

This list has centuries of experience, so I thought I'd check with you all first. Has anyone here any suggestions on cleaning the tar-like goo out of a gas (as in gasoline) tank that's been sitting for 2-3 decades? I'm resurrecting a car I've had for 20-years, and was probably sitting for at least 15-years before I bought it. It needed major engine repair, which is almost completed. I figured it would be a good idea to drop and drain the tank, for good measure. When I removed the fuel lines, only a dribble came out, so, I thought, "Well, it must be almost empty." Upon loosening it up, however, I found it to be quite heavy, with some sloshing around inside. After I poured off the liquid through the filler tube, there remains a layer of black tar, maybe 2-inches thick, stuck to the bottom of the tank. It's not a full solid, but it's pretty thick. Obviously, it has clogged the pick up and return ports. And ruined the guage sending unit.

Anyone ever come across the before? Any ideas? I've thought maybe dumping in 10 or so gallons of fresh fuel could dissolve it. Or, would some other chemical work better?

Mercedes content: It's a '59 190SL.

Thanks!

Mark

From: "attymw@yahoo.com [diesel_mercedes]" <diesel_mercedes@yahoogroups.com>
To: "diesel mercedes" <diesel_mercedes@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Sunday, June 1, 2014 1:05:10 PM
Subject: [diesel_mercedes] Switching Trunk Locks

I was thinking because I cannot open the trunk (its locked) on my 77280SE about taking the lock from my 71 220D and installing it on the 77 280SE. Does anyone know if the lock is compatible?

Because you can't lift up the back seats and no amount of lubricating oil has worked I am at the point of drilling the lock out.

Thanks and your good thoughts are appreciated!

Mike