'73 Fuel Tank Question

[kh911]

Hi Guys, I am in the process of 'refurbishing' the fuel system in my '73 911S. A quick question: Can the intank fuel strainer be cleaned sufficiently ? I blasted it with brake cleaner and compressed air. The wire mesh is pretty fine, but I can see a little sunlight thru it now. Or, do I just buy a new one ? I also plan to reseal the tank and replace the fuel filter, hoses etc.

Thanks

[Alan.uk]

Hi,

It is possible to clean them, but in most cases I prefer to fit new. The problem is with 73 - tanks are that you cannot buy exact new ones. The neck differs on the later version; also the very early 73 tanks use a separate oil filter mounting. I guess it depends on what you have and how exact it needs to be. In the past we have bought a new later style tank and then cut the filler neck off and retro fit a correct early neck.

HTH

Alan

[RSTarga]

I would be very carefull of resealing the inside. That tends to flake off after awhile.

[kh911]

Thanks for the feed back Alan and RSTarga.
I ordered a new fuel supply line intank fitting w/strainer from Stoddard today, along with a bunch other fuel system parts. Good point RST about the tank resealant flacking off. The shop that is redoing my tank 'claims' that sealant they use will 'stay pliable and not flake off'. Time will tell in that regard, we do know that the rust would/will return.

Keith

[RSTarga]

Were the factory tanks originally sealed? If not I wonder if some type of acid bath would remove the rust so you could get back to fresh steel inside. I know that older Rolls and Bentleys had lead lined tanks, that would seem to be the best solution although heavier.