Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
📦 Products & Materials
What exactly is the Tankdoc 2K Internal Tank Coating?
The Tankdoc 2K internal tank coating is a high-quality epoxy resin system consisting of resin and hardener. Once mixed, it forms a highly resistant, smooth protective layer that is permanently resistant to gasoline (E5/E10), diesel, oils, many additives, and diluted acids/alkalis. It prevents new rust formation, seals micro-pores and fine seams, and can also be used as a primer on the outside for overcoating.
In which colors is the tank coating available?
Standard colors: Light Grey, Red Brown, Black. The color has no effect on resistance. Many prefer Light Grey because it makes it easiest to check the interior.
Which container sizes are available?
Matched to typical tank volumes (reference values/consumption):
- 225 g – approx. 9 L tank volume
- 375 g – approx. 15 L
- 675 g – approx. 45 L (for 45 L you need 675 g)
- 1,250 g – approx. 80 L
For larger tanks, multiple sets can be combined. Complete sets (restoration boxes) also include cleaner & rust remover.
What is the mixing ratio and how long is the processing time?
4 : 1 (resin : hardener) by weight. Example: 180 g coating + 45 g hardener. After mixing, the material is workable for approx. 30–60 minutes. Stir components carefully for at least 3–5 minutes.
Can the viscosity be adjusted?
Yes, with the 2K thinner (approx. 5–10%) the flowability can be improved, e.g. for large tanks or high ambient temperatures. Also suitable for cleaning tools/threads.
Which other products are part of the system?
The restoration is carried out in a 3-step system:
- Cleaner/Degreaser – removes oil, dirt, gasoline residues
- Rust Remover/Neutralizer – removes rust, neutralizes alkaline residues
- 2K Internal Tank Coating – permanently seals
Additionally: Turbo Paint Remover (removes old coatings) and Rust Transformer (rust converter/scale remover).
🔧 Application & Processing
How do I optimally prepare the tank?
The tank must be clean, grease-free, rust-free and dry before coating:
- Disassemble: Empty the tank, remove fuel tap, securely seal openings.
- Clean: Dissolve cleaner/degreaser in warm water (60–75°C), fill in, leave to act 30–60 min (up to 4 h for stubborn residues).
- Rinse: Rinse several times with clean water.
- Derust: Apply rust remover (similar process, up to 4 h if necessary).
- Dry: Dry completely (hot air/compressed air). Residual moisture is the most common cause of coating failure.
How do I protect the exterior paint before restoration?
To prevent damage to the exterior paint, protect the tank carefully before restoration:
- Wrap with old blankets, paper and foil
- Mask openings and sensitive areas
- Optionally: pre-treat with wax protection spray – reliably protects the paint
How do I apply the internal tank coating correctly?
Pour in freshly mixed coating, close openings and slowly rotate the tank in all directions until all inner surfaces are coated. Let excess run off, rotate again. Avoid puddles or thick layers – thin & even is more durable.
Do I need a second layer?
Yes – we always recommend applying a second layer. Especially for heavily used tanks, it provides additional safety and longer durability. Ideally apply after 3–4 hours, when the first layer is still slightly sticky – this creates a chemical bond between the layers.
How long does drying take?
- Dust-dry: approx. 2 h
- Ready for assembly: approx. 12 h
- Fuel-resistant: only after 8–10 days at 20–25°C
- Oven: 80°C for 60 min possible – natural drying is more even
What typical mistakes should I avoid?
- Residual moisture → bubbles, peeling
- Rust residues → poor adhesion
- Wrong 4:1 mixing ratio → poor curing
- Puddling → brittle spots
- Too low temperature → viscous, slow curing
⚠️ Issues & Special Cases
Why do tanks rust faster today than before?
Modern fuels with ethanol attract water (hygroscopic). This promotes corrosion. An internal coating separates metal and fuel – preventing rust reliably.
Can I recoat on an old coating?
No. Old coatings must be completely removed (e.g. with Turbo Paint Remover), then clean/derust and only then recoat.
My tank is leaking – will the coating help?
Micro-leaks/porous seams can often be sealed. For larger rust holes, sheet metal repair is required – the coating does not replace welding.
After derusting I see a yellowish layer – is that critical?
Usually harmless discoloration. Important: no loose rust, surface clean & dry – then coating can be applied.
How do I handle very large tanks or complex shapes?
Work in sections: pour in, distribute, drain, rotate further. Remove excess with hose/syringe if necessary to avoid puddles.
📞 Service & Support
How can I recognize a factory-applied coating?
Very uniform, thin, fuel-resistant layer (often beige/red-brown). Acetone wipe test: if it dissolves, it was usually not factory-applied.
Are instructions available in other languages?
Yes – PDF instructions can be found here:
Do you also provide tank restoration as a service?
We work with experienced partner companies that professionally clean, derust, repair and coat tanks.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us fastest via:
- Phone: +49 9721 / 473390
- Mobile: +49 160 97304455
- Email: info@tankdoc.de
- WhatsApp: +49 9721 4768437