Another gas tank question for 46 Merc- color?

[psogden]

The new tank I purchased is painted grey. Is this the correct color? Was the original (factory) tank gray or galvanized plated or ?? I recall on a '46 Ford I once owned that the tank was under coated--but believe this was an option--something the dealers did for a modest charge.

[psogden]

Anybody know the answer to this question?

[rotorwrench]

I know that Ford Terne plated (tin/lead dip) their tanks but I can't say if they were painted in 1946 or not.

[psogden]

Thanks Rotorwrench.

[woodiewagon46]

Rotor is correct. The 1941 thru 1948 Ford Book offered by the V-8 club states, "Fuel tanks and filler necks (9034) for 1941-1948 Ford cars were fabricated from what was generally called Terne Plate, which consisted of steel plate coated with tin and lead alloy". I would highly recommend the book.

[FortyNiner]

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I have just removed the gas tank from a seemingly unmolested 46 Tudor. The tank showed zero signs of any paint on any surface. The filler neck, by virtue of the manufacturing process and sheltered location, was pristine - no rust or excessive road dirt accummulation. Terne Plate would appear to be the original finish for both pieces.

[woodiewagon46]

I think finding a shop that can Tern plate a gas tank would be very hard to find. I don't know how far you are going with your restoration, but Tern plate looks very much like galvanized. I know Eastwood has several finishes that would be close to what you want.