I did a search using a number of term combos, but wasn't able to find a thread that really explained the best way to take apart a Model A gas tank, 28-29 specifically. I know it's got spot welds, and I think I remember someone talking about taking a pneumatic hammer air tool to it...maybe I'm wrong. Anyone out there done this before?
I was gong to do this on the 30/31 but it isn't spot welded. It as one continous weld all the way around. Similar to a spot weld, but constant. for spot weld a drill bit or spot welding drill bit is best. What are you trying to do?
The seam welds are continuous, probably destroy it with an air chisel. I always just trimmed out the unwanted part with a torch leaving the welded seams. Now days would more than likely cut it a little farther away and do a closer trim with a cut off wheel.
first i would give it a sniff test to make sure it didnt have some gas left in it( even old gas is not good). you never know whan someone could have put gas in it.when you know that it is saft to cut on,then i would hole saw some holes in the bottom just to be safe. then the best way to cut the bottom out is to us a plasma cutter. the tank has baffles in it and they are tacked or spot welded to the bottom of the tank. you have to cut it up in littlr pieces around the baffles to get to the baffles to cut them.
I just used a short, fine tooth recipricating saw blade. If you are real careful and cut about 1/4" away from the top panel, angling the tip of the blade towards the top panel, you will clear the baffles.
Wow, thanks for all the tips and photos! Secondary question, how did you guys remove the upper part of the firewall that appears welded to the cowl top/gas tank?
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