Fuel Tank Questions??????

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coachin&smokin

Fire Starter
Original poster
May 23, 2008
72
10
Lewisport, KY
Hey guys it's been awhile since I posted. I'm looking to start building a reverse flow tank smoker and have been looking for tanks. I've found a 250 gallon diesel tank for $75 on Craigslist (I offered the guy $50 he didn't seem to happy with that) close to home. The owner said he just recently decommissioned the tank after about 15 years of use. He said there's light rust on the outside no dents and it was just emptied so hopefully not much rust on the inside. I have a some questions that I hope you guys can help with:

1. What would the thickness of metal be on the tank roughly?

I just bought a Lincoln Electric Flux Core Welder and it's only rated for 1/8" maximum. I bought it on Craigslist as well for $150 it's less than a year old I was excited about that deal especially when Home Depot sells them for $269.

2. What would the dimensions roughly be?

3. Should I look for a tank that's been emptied longer? Fumes and leftover diesel fuel are a little scary when you consider welding, cutting, and grinding even after the clean out.

4. With safety in mind is this a good choice or should I pass? It seems the area I live there are lots of these types tanks.

5. Should I use a propane tank instead? I'm worried my little welder won't be able to weld a heavier tank.

I need to decide by Saturday if I'm going to get it or not. I appreciate any comments or suggestions. The SMF was the place I learned how to BBQ 2 years ago and is the first place I turn to for this kind of advice.
 
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