Tank VIP's

[smorneau]

I picked up a couple of PST LP95 tanks today on the real cheap. Some light surface rust on the outside. Born on date is 1994. Hydro is good through 11/12 but needs VIP. There was a little air in each and the valves were loose, so I drained the tanks and took the valves out so I could take a look inside. There is light orange surface rust in each. A little more in one than the other, and some darker rust on the bottom of one. Does not look like any pitting though. What is considered acceptable rust to pass a VIP? Should I get a new Hydro now or wait until this one expires? Will it need to be tumbled with the rust? If so do you know anyplace that tumbles tanks here in Maine?

The reason I am asking, is the guy I bought them from will give me my money back if they FAIL but he wants to know soon so he can spend the cash. That is why I thought about getting a new Hydro on them now.

If I get new Hydro's I would like to get them "+" rated? Does anyone know a place local that will "+" rate them. Is there any drawbacks to them not passing the "+" rating?
Thanks

 

[davetowz]

The "Flash rusting"you describe will probably not affect the Hydro at all. However it may affect the vis and the tanks may need a tumbling to clean, hard to judge by text alone. Trust your LDS when they look at them and if they suggest a tumble, go for it.Steelies are pretty good on passing hydro tests forever. Check with your LDS on a vis and a tumble.

 

[spectrum]

What you describe can be cleaned up by spinning a whip in the cylinder. It's much quicker and easier than tumbling. It may entail a surcharge on the VIP fee.

I would not bother with a premature hydro.

Pete