Buying Used Tanks

[Blue982]

I'm planning on buying some used steel tanks. Is there anything I need to be on the lookout for?

I know:
- Visual is required every year (marked on a sticker).
- Hydro required every five years (stamped on the tank).

But other than that I know very little about markings, certifications and such. For example: might I run into tanks without a cert from the DOT? Would this cause me problems? If so, how do I spot it?

 

[Van Isle]

Here are some ideas:

-ideally there should be air in the tank, so you know there is less of a chance of it having sat empty and rusted.

-if there is no air, knock the valve off and have a look for rust. At any rate, have your offer dependent on the tank passing the vis and hydro if you can.

-DOT and/or TC markings are required in US/Canada AFAIK. Decode your tank here or here

It is possible for someone to have brought a European non-DOT/TC tank in to the country and now that it's out of date find it hard to hydro. You probably don't want those problems.

-if in doubt, hopefully you know someone or a shop you trust to check the tank out first.

Good luck!

VI