We have talked about failed fuel pumps before as well as contaminated gas tanks…but what is the catalyst for this contamination?

The answer is moisture in the gas tank.

If you own a car with a metal gas tank, moisture will create rust an rust will react with gasoline to create a sludge that damages fuel filters and overloads the pumps. If the car is carbureted, without an inline filter, it could clog your carb up.

How does the moisture get in?

This can happen all sorts of ways. Usually it comes in via fuel fill-up or is induced by weather. Humidity and old or vented tanks can be subject to this.

What can you do to prevent it?

Filling your tank full and adding fuel stabilizer before storage will curtail moisture greatly. Starting the car and replenishing fuel regularly will also help.

Storage in a moderate dry climate can also be good a preventative measure.

What do I do if I already have moisture in the tank?

Drain the tank and replace the fuel. Do not run the car. It would also be helpful to let the tank sit empty for a few days in order to dry it out.

There are also solutions that claim to help get moisture out. HEET is one of them…although we have no experience with this product or any others.

If the moisture in the tank has damaged the interior of the tank, it will have to be restored. This is a lengthy process but essential to getting your car back into reliable running order.

Water In Your Gas Tank