While drilling holes in my bed to mount my new toolbox, i nicked my gas tank with the bit (stupid I know, the bit grabbed on and pulled the drill down)

I checked the hole, looks like it didnt go through. I started the truck and idled it for 2-3 minutes, no CEL came on. Didnt smell gas either.

If there WAS a hole, how long would it take for a CEL to pop on? Does the gas tank check for leaks in cycles? If so, how long until it cycles to the rear section of the tank?

Help! I'm scared as hell right now!

 

just drive it and you will find out.
if you dont smell gas you prob didnt go through. how do you no you hit it if you cant even see it?

 

it will throw a code. i forget the number, but it'll be an EVAP system leak, if you did go through.

 

I stuck my head under the bedside between the fender flare and the tire and shoved a flashlight in there. I looked through the hole in the bed, and saw the little nick.

How long would it take for it to throw a code?

 

Anyone know how long it would take?

 

get some silicone and smear it over it just to be safe.

 

more then likely a few min of driving, or less then 25miles.

your truck might have a gas cap light, it would more then likely come on before the CEL.

 

it wont take long. you will no if you put a whole it in man. its not gonna hide from you

 

Drove it for a good 10-15 minutes. Nothing. Went WOT a few times, sloshed the tank around in some turns, sloshed with some braking, nothin. So I guess i didnt go through.

I had the thought to smear some silicone over it just incase. what kind of silicone? RTV silicone used for engine gaskets?

 

sure, if its still dry im sure its fine.

just put some rtv over it and make sure its filling the knick in the tank.

 

I would coat the spot with fiberglass if it's not leaking. Quick and easy and good patch.
For the future, try using shorter drills are make a collar that fits over the drill and uses a set screw to hold it in place. You can buy pre-made collars like this at woodworker stores.

Please be careful around any part of the fuel system.

 

I would use this stuff i got from nappa its called Fas-weld it says right on the case safe for Gas Tanks, radiators, Oil Pans, Engine Blocks,Exhaust and cracked batteries.

 

Ditto. That stuff is made for gas tank fixes. I would not trust other stuff as the gas could eventually eat away at it.

 

the key trick to installing toolboxes.......dont drill the gas tank hahaha.

 

haha... its all about the duct tape... it'll fix anything. =)

 

Take the gas cap off. Find out how long it takes.

IIRC its 2 drive cycles.