Expert: Brad Sears - 3/30/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi Brad, I recently contacted you about my 1984 Corvette, it hadn't been started in about 2 years. I later found that the fuel tank is full of water. I didn't start the car. I am going to drain the tank and let dry for several days. The fuel sending unit is very rusty. There seems to be a design flaw with the corvettes and water building up in the fuel access area. I have ordered a replacement, it is backordered until middle June. My question, I know that I can sand the outside of the unit and paint a rust inhibitor but what about the inside. It seems to have  small amount of rust on the inside of the unit which will be exposed to the fuel? I don't want to contaminate the fuel.
Thanks
John

ANSWER: Are you talking about rust on the inside of the fuel tank? Let me know.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No, The tank is lined. The sending unit is the fill tube and return fuel lines.

Answer
I would use a product called POR 15 to coat the surface with. It is made to withstand gasoline and other chemicals. My stock answer for “where can I find….” Is to latch on to a copy of Hemmings Motor News, the old car hobbies classified bible. There are many companies that supply parts for old cars and you will find them in Hemmings. www.hemmings.com
Brad