1. Importance of a Clean Fuel Tank

2. Fuel tank maintenance is crucial for a vehicle to
perform better. If any debris or sludge is spotted in the
tank or with leaking gasoline, it’s time for fuel tank
maintenance. Removing all the tarnish from the fuel
tank is critical. The main goal in cleaning the tank is to
restore the tank environment to the same state before it
was driven off.

3. Why a clean fuel tank is crucial for a fuel pump's
diet?
Fuel tanks are designed to keep the engine's fuel vented,
secure and clean. They also provide space for small
amounts of water, sediment and other contaminants to
settle down so that they will not be drawn into the
equipment tank or vehicle as fuel is pumped out. This
sediment material and water will accumulate overtime
and cause problems if not removed periodically. Water
vapor condenses in fuel tanks and constitutes for
microbial growth that can result in severe microbial
contamination thus leading to downtime and costly
repairs.

4. Change in the fuel color is one of the indications that
the fuel has been contaminated. Few negative effects of
the microbial growth may include: reduced combustion
efficiency, elevated cloud point and pour point, plugged
fuel filters and increased corrosion of fuel components.
The most effective practice in maintaining the fuel tank
is to minimize exposure to water. Procedures designed
to minimize accumulation of water include:

5. Recycling of fuel through water separators.
Fuel tank insulation to stabilize fuel temperature.
Routine discharge of water bottoms.
Also, Sludge should be removed from the fuel tank
regularly along with periodic cleanings and tank
inspections.
How to clean a fuel tank?
A dirty fuel tank may lead to issues with the fuel it
holds. Few noticing performance issues or poor gas
mileage should be considered for cleaning the fuel tank.

6. Gather the supplies: With the right tools in hand and
with adequate work space, cleaning the fuel tank is not
a difficult task. Make sure to gather the basic tools and
supplies such as safety equipment, jack, fluid extraction
pump etc., beforehand and have them within reach
during the task.
Ensure safety during the task: Taking certain safety
measures during the process is vital because fuel is
harmful. Basic safety gear helps to protect against the
fuel getting in to eyes or on the skin as well.

7. Extract fuel: Place the diesel container under the duct
hole and remove the plug to drain off the fuel. If the
fuel tank does not have a drain hole, then go with the
fluid extraction pump to get the job done. Pump till all
the fuel and contaminants are out of the tank and
nothing more flows out.

8. Clean fuel tank: Clean the accumulated rust or debris
in the fuel tank especially around the hanger assembly
or the module to avoid fuel tank contamination. Now,
remove the lock ring and the hanger assembly. Clean
and flush the tank either with water or by taking fuel
tank cleaning solution.
By using water: Swish the fuel tank with water to
collect any debris remaining in the fuel tank and
carefully poor out into the fuel caddy. The tank should
be then thoroughly dried by circulating air or by simply
placing it under sun.

9. Fuel tank cleaning solution: By taking the solution in
equal amounts to the fuel the tank holds the tank should
be cleaned thoroughly. Ensure that the cleaning solution
is low in sulfur, to protect the integrity of the tank. Fill
the tank with the solution and allow it to sit for at least
for 30 minutes, so that it will break down the debris and
sludge present in the tank. After some time, drain the
cleaner from the tank and make sure to dispose this
cleaning solution properly as it can hazardous to
animals, people and environment.

10. Return the fuel to the tank: After draining the cleaner,
inspect the tank carefully before putting the fuel back.
If the tank is rusted inside or out and shows signs of
damage it must be replaced or repaired. Lower the
vehicle from the jack and remove all the safety
equipment to complete the job.
When a fuel tank is free from debris and sludge and
clean, the vehicle's engine enjoys greater attainment.
The job is not difficult and with the right supplies and
tools everything will get done efficiently and properly.

11. Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems is the leading aftermarket
supplier of mechanical and electric fuel pumps and
modular reservoir assemblies (MRA). For over 50
years, Airtex fuel pumps have been the benchmark fuel
delivery components for leading companies in the
automotive aftermarket. If you are looking for an
electric fuel pump, visit us at: Airtexproducts.com.