Prolonging gasket life on empty NATO cans

[JohnnyS]

To prolong gasket life is it better to store empty NATO cans closed or open?
I just received 4 cans from Deutsche Optik and am quite happy with them.
Probably best to store them closed but figured I throw it out there for discussion.

 

[Curmudgeon]

I have NATO cans that have been stored closed and empty for years, and the seals are still just fine. And I always carry spare seals with me, just in case. I've never had to replace one.

 

[Herbie]

Additionally, what you ought to be more concerned about than gasket life is the life of the can itself, since the gasket is a wear item.

Storing the can sealed will greatly reduce the chance of corrosion forming inside the can. Replace the seal as necessary.

 

[JohnnyS]

Thanks for the input. :sombrero:

 

[Nadir_E]

I cannot say with certainty that it won't react badly with the gasoline, so try at your own risk, but one way to keep rubber products pliant is to spray them with a light coating of silicone (available in a spray-paint like can at your local hardware store).

-N