JB Weld Tank Weld vs. Steel Stick: any difference?
Tank Weld is easy to attach and sticks very well if the surface is scratched to bare metal. It stays in place and effectively seals the hole. I found it very convenient to use and was pleased with the results, while Steel Stick is a more general-purpose metal epoxy for industrial repairs.
- JB Weld Tank Weld vs. Steel Stick: Specs & Uses
- My Hands-on Test of JB Weld Tank Weld
- My Hands-on Test of JB Weld Steel Stick
JB Weld Tank Weld vs. Steel Stick: Specs & Uses
ā°Cure time
JB Weld Tank Weld: Sets in 5 minutes, fully cures in 1 hour
Steel Stick: Sets in 5 minutes, fully cures in 1 hour
šChemical resistance
JB Weld Tank Weld: Excellent, including gasoline, diesel fuel, engine oil, anti-freeze, hydraulic fluid
Steel Stick: Good, including gasoline, acids, caustics, hydrocarbons
š ļøCommon Uses
JB Weld Tank Weld can be used to repair small chips or cracks in plastic fuel pump housings that cause fuel leaks and fumes; repair tiny holes in the bottom of metal gas tanks; and Temporarily fix small leaks in plastic lawn mower tanks.
Steel Stick can be used to repair stripped threaded holes; patch screw holes in stainless steel; fill the hollow back of a finger ring; scoring the surface with a razor.
Technical Info
My Hands-on Test of JB Weld Tank Weld
This putty can fix leaky metal gas tanks, cracked plastic housings, and holes in garbage disposals.
ā Pros: JB Weld Tank Weld
It bonds well to metal surfaces, which is one of its best features. It sealed a hole in my Craftsman snowblower’s plastic fuel tank completely. Prior to applying the product, make sure the surface is clean and rough.
Plastic Housings
While Tank Weld is primarily designed for metal surfaces, I’ve also had success using it on plastic housings, such as a chipped fuel pump housing. The epoxy bonded well and prevented further leakage of fumes. However, it’s important to note that it may not adhere as effectively to certain plastics, like polypropylene gas cans.
4 Best Epoxy For Plastic Gas Tank Repair
If you’re wondering if Tank Weld works on metal gas tanks, including aluminum and steel, it sure does. I’ve used it to seal pinholes and even larger rips with great success. Just remember to drain the tank and ensure it’s completely dry before application.
One thing to keep in mind is that Tank Weld cures quickly, so you’ll need to work efficiently. It becomes harder to knead after a few minutes, so it’s best to apply it promptly once mixed. Additionally, while it can withstand some heat exposure (I’ve used it on a radiator), it may not be suitable for high-pressure gas lines or extremely hot surfaces.
Versatility
Tank Weld is versatile and I’ve used it for various applications beyond fuel tanks. It has proven effective for sealing holes in garbage disposals and even creating gaskets for fuel tanks, thanks to its water and liquid-proof properties.
āCons: JB Weld Tank Weld
However, it’s important to note that Tank Weld may not be suitable for all scenarios, such as use with animals or in marine environments, as its safety in these contexts has not been thoroughly tested.
FAQ: JB Weld Tank Weld
Q: Is it safe to use with E85 fuel?
A: According to JB’s website, the product is suitable for use with gas tanks but does not specifically mention E85. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) does not provide any cautions regarding fuel compatibility. I have personally used it to seal pinholes in an oil bath air cleaner and found it to cure very hard.
Q: Can I use it on a plastic lawn mower tank?
A: The product packaging indicates that it is suitable for use on fuel tanks, including plastic tanks. It also works well on metal tanks, potable water tanks, and various metals such as aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, iron, and stainless steel. I have personally used it on diesel and gas tractor tanks with success. It is a user-friendly solution.
Q: Can the Versachem 90180 Fuel Tank repair kit be used on a plastic gas tank?
A: Yes, the Versachem 90180 Fuel Tank repair kit can be used on a plastic gas tank. Alternatively, you can also consider using the J-B Weld Plastic Bonder (50133 or 50139 in j-b weld plastic bonder vs plastic weld) depending on whether you have a pinhole leak or a larger hole. The choice between liquid epoxy or putty depends on the specific repair requirements.
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My Hands-on Test of JB Weld Steel Stick
ā Pros
I had a steel-tubed table leg that needed a caster, but the threaded opening on the only plug I could find was slightly too small to stay in place. However, a generous ring of SteelStik around the retainer did the trick perfectly. It held the caster securely, and I was thrilled with the result.
Dries as Hard as Steel
I’ve used this epoxy putty on several different metal and steel parts, and it truly lives up to its name. It dries as hard as steel, and it’s probably the next best thing to welding for repairs. I did manage to remove it from aluminum when necessary, but it required some effort with a hammer and screwdriver. Thankfully, I was replacing the part, so it wasn’t a problem.
Usability
In terms of usability, this epoxy putty is a breeze. It’s simple to use, sands easily, and cures to a very hard finish. It bonds to almost anything, making it versatile for a wide range of applications.
The working process with Steel Stick is smooth and efficient. It starts getting tacky within a minute of working it between your fingers, and then it quickly hardens. The ability to cut off only what you need from the stick is convenient. Once everything is laid up, the material hardens rapidly, allowing you to grind, drill, cut, and sand it with ease. It’s a perfect solution for those situations where you need a reliable and durable fix.
āCons
While it may not have worked for some specific purposes, such as repairing a broken gas cable hook on a push mower, I still see the potential for this epoxy putty to excel in other applications based on its overall performance. I rate it a solid 3 out of 5, acknowledging its strengths while recognizing its limitations.
FAQ of JB Weld Steel Stick
Q: How easy is it to apply this product in the stripped threaded hole of an exercise bike pedal crank arm?
A: I used Steel Stick to repair a thread on an antique car door handle that had a broken pot metal thread. The thread hole was missing a significant portion, but I managed to thread a screw into the remaining threads and used the putty to mold a repair. To ensure easy removal, I coated the screw threads with vaseline as a release agent, which worked remarkably well. After two hours, I removed the screw, sanded the part to fit, and now it’s back on my car. The repaired screw threads felt secure when tightened. While I can’t guarantee its long-term durability, it’s worth attempting the repair before investing in a costly replacement part that may not match the rest of the door handles’ patina.
Q: I have screw holes in a stainless steel range hood that I want to patch. Will the patch blend in and look finished, or will it be visible?
A: I suggest taking a small amount, following the instructions to mix and let it set up or cure as directed. Then compare the cured SteelStik with your range hood to see if it matches. If it doesn’t blend well, you can experiment with silver paint to achieve a closer match to the stainless steel.
Q: Can I use Steel Stick fill in the hollow back of a finger ring?
A: Technically, it should easily fill and adhere to the ring surface. However, I cannot guarantee how continuous contact with your skin might react. The cured product appears inert, but I recommend testing a small amount against your skin for a couple of days to ensure no adverse reactions occur. It’s wise to do this test before permanently modifying a ring you wish to keep. Another user also recommended a two-part product, and it’s worth noting that this epoxy product consists of two parts, with the outer ring containing the first component and a central core of the second hardener. To use it, tear off the required amount and twist and pull the putty-like substance until blended. Once hardened, it will be as strong as steel.
Q: Does Steel Stickt work with PVC?
A: It will work with PVC, but I recommend scoring the surface area of the PVC extensively with a razor. If possible, position the gouges facing away from the part you are connecting or in the opposite direction of the load.
Iām Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when Iād always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And Iād spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and youāll never be stuck in a mess!
Feel free to contact me and join our discussion:
Can I use JB Weld Tank Weld on a high-pressure air compressor tank?
I strongly advise against using this Tank Weld for repairing an air compressor tank, especially for structural repairs. Air compressor tanks often develop leaks due to internal rusting, which can lead to potential explosions. There are videos available on YouTube that demonstrate violent compressor tank explosions caused by rust damage. To assess the extent of rust damage, it is recommended…Read More
I strongly advise against using this Tank Weld for repairing an air compressor tank, especially for structural repairs. Air compressor tanks often develop leaks due to internal rusting, which can lead to potential explosions. There are videos available on YouTube that demonstrate violent compressor tank explosions caused by rust damage. To assess the extent of rust damage, it is recommended to consult an air compressor manufacturer or consider cutting open the tank. Safety should be the utmost priority in this situation.
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