Jerry Can Markings

[longld]

Found a 1945 Jerry Can on Craigslist yesterday and own it for 25$. Researched the markings and found a site that some of you might be interested in.
https://olive-drab.com/od_mvg_jerry_can_markings.php

A bit of trivia:
The Jerry Can design was stolen from the Germans - passed to the US by the British.
QMC label refers to Quartermaster Corp
A USMC on the bottom does not refer to the marines; U.S. Metal Container Company.

Muriatic acid and Red Kote and I should have a like-new Jerry Can.

[RonD2]

Hi Lee,
And over on the G503 forum they have a whole section devoted to nothing but..........everything you ever wanted to know (another gold mine).

https://forums.g503.com/viewforum.php?f ... cba716a309

[longld]

thx Ron, very interesting reading.....

[Jeff_Lee]

Muriatic acid and Red Kote and I should have a like-new Jerry Can.

So you use the muriatic acid to clean up the inside of the Can?

Jeff

[longld]

yes, pour it inside, rotaTE CAN EVERY 15 MINUTES to get all areas done. MUST use baking soda and water to neutralize after muriatic acid. Some people also use vinegar but I think it takes longer.

[Mike_B]

Do you use it full strength right out of the jug, or do you dilute it first?

Mike B

[longld]

good question, I use it full strength for really rusted cans - just be careful and keep your distance, use gloves and preferably a mask. One quart can do two cans and even clean your drain tub afterwards. I pour the remaining acid in my drain tub and then dip the spout in it to clean it...if you are lucky enough to have an original steel flex spout. Other people dilute the acid.......

[Jeff_Lee]

Lee, two more questions, if I may.
1. Muratic acid comes in a lot of strengths. I found two different concentrations in a quick look at Home Depot. Pool chem department had one concentration, and the masonry department. Can you give us a strength reading off your jug?
2. After neutralizing the acid with the water/baking soda do you just leave the inside of the can naked? I guess the best way to keep the can oxidation free is to keep it full of gas, just like any other tank.

Your experience in this is great help - thanks!

Jeff

[longld]

Jeff,
I buy my Muriatic Acid in the pool dept of my local Ace hardware - Professional Strength 31.45% HCL.
I usually use Red Kote (search on Amazon for this) product to line the tank before putting gasoline in it. Not sure if I will line my last one as I am putting it on my Jeep empty. Not sure of the laws in AZ, but many states do not allow you to transport gas in anything but a red can - and IT WILL NOT be painted red!