[Spridgets] Fuel tank leak around sending unit

Tim Collins thcollin at mtu.edu
Fri Sep 4 13:36:33 MDT 2009


When I restored my '66 Sprite, I put in a new (eBay) gas tank, but 
used the original sending unit. This setup uses the cork ring and six 
bolts rather than the locking ring. I assembled it dry assuming the 
cork would seal properly. When the tank is full, it leaks around the 
sending unit. I know because I also painted the tank and can see 
stains coming from that area. So, this week I took the tank out and 
added a Hylomar seal to all surfaces and put it all back in. Now that 
everything is buttoned up I am having one of those Oh, No moments. Is 
it possible for gas to get into the sending unit where the resistor 
and wiper live and then leak out the cover plate of that assembly? I 
did use a new gasket on the resistor "pocket" when I first rebuilt 
things, but I didn't do anything to that particular gasket when I had 
the tank out this week. It doesn't seem like you would ever want 
gasoline to be in the resistor pocket, but does that sometimes 
happen. I'd like to know before refilling the tank. Thanks.

Tim Collins
http://www.flickr.com/photos/12702006@N07/ 


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