Jerry Can restoration...Is it possible?

[Fergie]

I picked up two old jerry cans from my dad in December. When I say old, I mean he had them before I was alive. He said they are still liquid tight, but I havent tested that assertation yet.

After closer inspection, they look pretty worn, and are REALLY rusty on the inside. I'd like to restore the interior of the can to be able to use the two of them, but not if it is going to cost more than a new can would.

So, take a look at the pics, and let me know what you think.

Thanks

PS- Neither of them has a spout, and from the first photo, the washer is shot. Where might be a good place to pick up a new washer and a new nozzle?

 

[SAR_Squid79]

Off the top of my head I would think that the time and resouces that you put into it will exceed the cost of a brand new can.

 

[cruiseroutfit]

Looks like generic Blitz style cans... neat old cans, but pretty "archaic" considering the latest offerings (ie. Scepters and Waecos).

However, you could have those cleaned, call a radiator shop in your area, they can usually hot tank/acid wash the tank assuming the rust isn't too bad. I've had several gas tanks done with good results. However, you'll have to refinish the exterior of the can.

There used to be some DIY products for removing the rust and lining gas tanks, I assume it would work fine on gas cans too.

Either way... you could replace those cheaper.

 

[Spikepretorius]

Use them to fill with water and chuck on the camp fire. Leave it to idle there while you're doing your thing.
Then you've got a ready supply of hot water for washing utensils and a bush shower.

 

[RHINO]

i would throw them to the recycler and get NATO style cans,,, but if you want to salvage these you can either go the rad shop route and have them boiled or you can hit the motorcycle shop and get a gas tank cleaning/lining kit.

 

[Gregny]

I also agree with everyone else the time and money you'll spent isn't worth it unless there for an origional resortation project. Better to get some new scepter or wedco cans IMO good luck.

 

[Grim Reaper]

Thats the best thing that can happend to a blitz. It will make you throw it away. :wings:




Get a NATO or a Septor to replace it.

 

[Beowulf]

I understand that some times sentimental value is more important. If that is the case there are many restoration companies that offer kits for gas tanks. Usually a two part system that is mixed and then poured into the tank. From there you rotate and flip the tank A LOT! Once it is dry it is better than the stock bare metal tank ever was.

 

[TheRoadie]

One my Dad used on a motorcycle restoration project is called Kreem. Still available. The kit for cleaning and sealing a 1-5 gallon tank is $35. Maybe worth it for classic kit motorcycles. Not for Blitz cans.

I have five old cans in the same shape. Now I know what to do with 'em.

 

[gpwpat]

While this generic jerry can may not be woth fixing. Please keep in mind that some of the old military cans are highly sought after by military vehicle collectors and we will restore them. There is lots of info on the Jerry can forum on G503.com

 

[Beowulf]

gpwpat,

WOW! I have never seen so much Gerry Can info. I like cans but these guys are true collectors.

http://g503.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=37&topicdays=0&start=0

 

[gpwpat]

see this thread on putting a rusty can back into service.

http://www.g503.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=58089&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0

I have a few cans I will be restoring myself. Mine are from 1942.

 

[MoGas]

Wow, I'll have to check out my old cans, I got them when I was in the Navy and I know they are old. We used to use them for waste jet fuel until they decided to have us use 55 gal drums, so we were throwing these away by the pallet load. I use them for my used oils to take for disposal.

 

[Fergie]

Wow, I'll have to check out my old cans, I got them when I was in the Navy and I know they are old. We used to use them for waste jet fuel until they decided to have us use 55 gal drums, so we were throwing these away by the pallet load. I use them for my used oils to take for disposal.

I found a place to buy all new rubber for the o-rings and gaskets, as well as filler necks and screw-top lids.

No need to give up on the gas cans just because they are a bit rusted.