Sand in fuel tank

[akpolaris]

I picked up a 300 gal fuel tank to supply a boiler for my shop. It has been previously used to store used oil and after cleaning all the sludge and **** out of it I find there is sand and gravel still in there. I am trying to get it out but it is a challenge. How much of a problem will this be if I can't get it all out. In the end won't the filter keep this stuff from the boiler?

 

[TheEquineFencer]

Look at the micron rating of the filter you will be using. Then see how much they are.

I'd probably take a pressure washer to it to start with. The cleaner you start out the better off you are.
I'd pull the plug out of the bottom and keep flushing some kerosene through it until it's all washed out myself.

 

[Zeke]

You can't get a vac hose in there? Be careful if there are ANY fumes left from the oil.

 

[cowboy73]

Got any pics of the tank?

 

[BDT/NWMN]

small amount of sand or gravel.... Should pose no problem with a filter under the tank... There are trucking companies that have burned used crankcase oil from the trucks by adding it into the fuel tanks... In the past, I have added a quart of atf when filling the fuel tanks on my trucks... If you look into the fuel tanks of trucks, farm, and construction equipment, you would be surprised at what may be seen. Sand is not an uncommon accumulation, given the environment in which they are refueled.. If that 300 gallon tank has been "reasonably" cleaned out; I wouldn't be too concerned..

 

[akpolaris]

I already set up s stand with rollers to spin it for painting so I will run a hose in there then a few gallons of diesel fuel to coat the tank after the bath. Too much sand for me to be comfortable with filtering out

 

[willhollin]

Good filtration and make sure the boiler is not running when you have a fuel delivery and for a good few hours afterwards and you will be fine.

 

[Benjamin12]

I've some small rock and sand in mine..
Tried to shake out as much as I could, tried to blow it out, tried to **** it out... still got some left...
My daughter thought it was a good idea to trow in some while my paint was drying.. (gave so extra work on the paint as well....ggrr)
I dont plan to run it on reserve so I hope I'm fine...