Gas and Oil Home Heating Furnaces - Oil leak repair

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View Full Version : Oil leak repair


wai
06-01-05, 01:14 PM
I installed a oil tank for my furnace last year, since after I fill up the tank with oil, I noticed from the bottom of the tank where the 2" connection pipe always moist and wet, I think that I did not put enough teflon tape to the threads when installing that 2" pipe to the tank,since then I have used silicon cement and even body filler trying to repair the problen but failed to stop the moist... is out there some one can help me or knowing some kind of silicon cement that can be mixed with oil or any suggestion to fix the problem, it will be really apreciated....... it is too late for disassemble and re-do the pipe again, because the tank is full of oil, is connected to furnace fuel line and it can not be turned now.

Thanks in advance


Grady
06-01-05, 06:25 PM
You have a 2" connection at the bottom of the tank? I've never seen such a large fitting at the bottom.
First off, you should NEVER use teflon or silicone on oil fittings. Since that has already been done & the tank is full, I know of no way short of pumping out the tank to stop the leak. If the tank is 2/3 full or less, an experienced serviceperson can do a 1/2 or 3/4" fitting by using a vaccuum cleaner. This is NOT a diy job.
Once you get the tank pumped out, I suggest a good pipe dope which is specificly listed for fuel oils. I use Permatex #2 (available at any auto parts store).

wai
06-02-05, 07:17 AM
Thanks for your help and comments... I guess this is the last alternative.
The 2" pipe comes out from the tank and some how in the middle is the tap for the 3/8" fuel line to the furnace. The problem that I have, is as for your suggestion it is a big job and that the leak is not a leak leak situation, it is only like a moist only if I put my hand onto it, it seems to be moist and wet, this is why I am looking for may be a fast patch up thing....
Any way, thanks again


Grady
06-02-05, 07:41 AM
Can you take some pictures, post them, & provide a link? I would like to see this tank set-up. Might be able to offer some suggestions.

wai
06-02-05, 07:56 AM
Grady,... the oil tank is at my cottage, I will try to get a camera to take some pictures next time up there

thanks again