For 72 Olds Cutlass S. I'm replacing the fuel tank. Does anybody know where to find info about if the oem tank was painted and what color?

 

The original tanks were NOT painted. If you're buying a replacement tank made by Spectra Premium (Canada) it will look like the original finish. They use a "special" type of coating or metal called "Ternes" steel. No need to paint it at all.

Don't get talked into painting it if you want an original look. The typical gas tank paint sold by places like Eastwood doesn't look like the original finish at all.

 

Even if you don't paint the exterior of the tank you might consider coating the inside before you install it. I've used the POR-15 fuel tank lining kits on 2 fuel tanks. The tank of my 71 98 and the tank of my 86 Ford F250. Both tanks were in decent condition when I started and are ready for another 20+ years of service after treatment.

https://por15.com/products/fuel-tank-repair-kit

 

Thank you for the guidance. Re: Eastwood paint - I bought their 'CAD plating' paint for my power brake booster several years ago. I was very disappointed, so I stripped it off and just painted it gold.

Barry

 

Thank you for your response and suggestion. I did the inside coating to a motorcycle gas tank years ago and it worked out well.

Barry

 

Just a thought, seems to me that shooting the tank with a catalyzed matte or semi matte clear wouldn’t much show unless you were right up against it, would be solvent resistant and protect the tank nearly forever.

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Great suggestion. I clear coated the transmission years ago - it still looks good and easy to clean.

Thanks!

 

Make sure you post some before and after pics.