The final tank to be replaced was the kerosene tank at the rear of the car.  This tank experiences thermal changes with the operation of the car.  Fuel from the tank is pumped to the main burner’s kerosene service tanks where 140 PSIG pressure is maintained.  As the pumps are operating anytime the car is in motion any excess kerosene is directed back to the supply tank.  As the fuel lines are near steam lines and other hot portions of the vehicle the fuel absorbs some amount of heat as it circulates.  The heated fuel returning to the tank warms the kerosene tank and its contents.  When the car is stopped and allowed to cool the kerosene tank cools and in so doing “inhales” air from the environment.  This inhaled air contains moisture which condenses and collects at the bottom of the tank where rusting starts.

The car’s original kerosene tank was badly rusted all along the bottom and had been repaired numerous times with fuel tank repair epoxy.  Unfortunately the tank still wept fuel.  While at the opposite end of the car from the enclosed flames under the hood, the leaking would need to be corrected.  Inspection of the interior of the tank with a borescope revealed a complete coating of rust to the point that replacement of the tank was the only viable solution.  As this tank would be painted, the new tank was fabricated out of stainless steel.