Author Topic: Dent in oil tank  (Read 1110 times)

Offline roadrocket

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Dent in oil tank
« on: 05.06. 2013 22:59 »
Much swearing when the Rocket fell over, and into a rather large flower pot! The pot went unscahthed, but my oil tank, almost dent free since 1954 or thereabouts (flat type), got a nasty horizontal dent. Any tips for at least partly getting it back into shape? Some filling must likely be tolerated.
Otto in Denmark

Offline wilko

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Re: Dent in oil tank
« Reply #1 on: 06.06. 2013 00:55 »
A rare earth magnet with a slide hammer attached?

Offline fido

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Re: Dent in oil tank
« Reply #2 on: 06.06. 2013 07:57 »
The BSA was made of thicker steel than a modern car but might be worth a look at this:

http://www.wikihow.com/Repair-Minor-Dents

Online KiwiGF

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Re: Dent in oil tank
« Reply #3 on: 06.06. 2013 10:24 »
Standard method used by car repairers is to spot weld thin rods or wire to the dent and pull it out, then use filler, but unless the dent is deep I reckon just use filler?
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Online Topdad

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Re: Dent in oil tank
« Reply #4 on: 06.06. 2013 12:30 »
Hi sounds annoying ,as Fido says they're made of meatier metal than used now so don't think you'll pull it out , depends on whereabouts but could you get a piece of wood inside against the side and manipulate a lever through the filler hole to lever it out ,probably the return pipe will hinder but just a thought ,if not you can acheive a great finish with filler and spray cans , just have to take your time and as a bonus 'cause it's the flat sided tank you could use a detail sander to great effect , why not post some pictures ? oh and just to feel a little better get even with the plant pot ,a good whack should do it ,although not if it's the bosses at least not when she's around !! best of luck BobH.
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Offline roadrocket

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Re: Dent in oil tank
« Reply #5 on: 11.06. 2013 15:50 »
Thanks for replies!

The dent is about 7 mm deep and 10 cm long, and is difficult to reach from either holes. Maybe I should look around for someone with the welding-outfit.
Otto in Denmark

Offline wilko

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Re: Dent in oil tank
« Reply #6 on: 12.06. 2013 02:32 »
Just fill it with bog! Only you would know!