Welding a used auto gas tank?

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Is there a good safe way of going about this?I am needed to put a rear sump in a gas tank, getting anew tank to do this to is not an option since I doubt they are available.  And I really don't want to go with a fuel cell.I have heard even after washing them really good the pores in the steel will hold fumes.  I have though of filling it up with water with the section I am working on at the top so there is just a small space of potentially dangerous area.Or taking an extra bottle of argon or tri-mix and letting it back purge the inside of the tank.Both of these ideas would be after cleaning it very well.Any other ideas?ThanksRandy
Reply:After steam or water cleaning, there may be a small amount of vapor left. If it DOES ignite, it will just flash and that's it. I've done several fuel cell mods and this is what I've experienced. If you are still paranoid of explosion, just purge with CO2 or argon. Combustion ceases with no oxygen.
Reply:Yeh, turbo has the right advice.If this tank is out anyway and you were already considering putting water in it, give it a good wash out with a bit of laundry soap in a bunch of water. Flush all the soap out good with rinses then blow dry the tank with air. If the comfort factor still isn't there do a little back purge with co2.
Reply:Get a hose and attach it to the tailpipe of your truck and put the other end in the gas tank. I have heard that is a very safe way to make sure nothing bad happens. I also read you should let it idle for 20 minuets before welding but that seems a little extreme to me but better safe then sorry.
Reply:Originally Posted by lowlypawnGet a hose and attach it to the tailpipe of your truck and put the other end in the gas tank. I have heard that is a very safe way to make sure nothing bad happens. I also read you should let it idle for 20 minuets before welding but that seems a little extreme to me but better safe then sorry.
Reply:I think the main thing here is constant new air into the tank so fumes can't build up.  I have used water filled tank except where I was welding also, but think the exhaust is better, safer.  did the water with O/A torch, not electrical type.