header tank leak

If you can pressurize the tank with a low pressure (I use a balloon as a pressure regulator), then use soapy water to identify exactly where the leak is at. Then, if you can get a small low pressure (vacuum) in the tank (not too much, don't collapse the tank), you could maybe paint a sealant over the leaky seam and suck it back into the leak to seal it. Just a thought.

I hope I'm not violating the rules of this website, but I'm writing to ask for BAD advice.  Let me explain:

Scroll down the posts to see the "Hardware Hank" repair some prior owner made to the header tank shutoff valve on my 415-C.  The valve is wet and the cockpit smells like gas.  Discoloration indicates the tank itself may be leaking.  

I spoke with my AP and several Ercoupe owners.  I received lots of GOOD advice.  Pull the tank ($1,500) and replace it with one from Univair ($2,800) or have it rebuilt by Safe Skies Aviation in Ohio ($2,000) or drill out all the rivets myself, then clean, patch, reassemble ($??).  Vern at Skyport does not have a servicable used one. 

Okay, that's the Right way to fix it but there goes all the money I set aside for the Annual in June and my insurance in November.  What's the Wrong way?  How about trying to extend the tank life with PRC sloshing sealer - anybody had success with that?  What other low-buck options are there? 

If you don't want to comment on this website for fear of looking like a cheakskate in front of others, email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  I really appreciate ALL the advice I get from this group.  Thanks in advance.
 

Ken, I found this on another website:

ercoupe.groups.io/g/Tech/topic/52666189?...0::,,,0,0,0,52666189

Does removing the header tank really involve that much work?  I'm amazed you found somebody to do it for so little money.  Who's your A/P?  I'd like to get a quote on mine.