Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Cleaning carb & gas tank on B&S Model 135212, gas tube, gas tank

Question
I remove the carb and gas tank from a Model 125212 (5 H.P.) Type 027301 and had a couple questions:

1) Can the gas tube (with screen) coming out of the bottom of the carb be replaced? Mine looks to have a little rust in the screen.

2) What is the best way to clean the gas tank? Mine is full of crap and looks like it is rusting on the inside. It is hard to see because of this big sponge thing in there which I guess is designed to crap trap.

Please advise on the best thing to do.

Thanks
Carvel

Answer
Hi Carvel,

I never have replaced the pick up tube.  Try wire brushing it if you can't remove the screen from the tube.  

To clean the inside of a fuel tank, I normally would recommend adding some non-flammable solvent and a handfull of sharp stones, then shaking the mixture.  Rinse well when it is clean.  With the sponge thing (which I have never seen.) I don't think you can do that.  

Sorry I couldn't have been more help this time.
Michael