I just purchased a new gas tank and stainless 1/2" sending unit for my ebody, I want to leave the tank the original metal color, will the new tank rust if I dont paint it?

Thanks

Gas tank should have a zinc coating on it to prevent rust if memory serves. On a summer-only car, I don't think you'll have to worry about it ever rusting.

Great question, I purchased a new one as well. b
But I was too worried about it rusting after i installed it, so I painted it with some black Zero-rust.
Always wonder if I was wrong to do so.

I just hit mine with a light coat of Plasti-Kote engine enamel clear. Then backed over a plastic recycling bin and put a nice big dent in it!!

The clear coat has worked out great for the last 4 years.

Don.

All the new gas tanks I have seen in a muscle car have had the original metal showing, no paint on them and that is how I would like to leave this new tank I bought!

I hit mine with WD 40 or other rust spray. Holds up great 6 years now. Looks like new... with a bit of dust

That's how mine looks too with the clear on it.

Don.

I left mine with the factory coating on it.

So far no problems. If it lasts as long as the old one did I will be happy with it.

as mentioned they have a zinc(or other) non ferrous coating on them thats fairly thick.

I clearcoated my new one so it wouldnt rust.