What ever you do, no blow torches or naked flames near the petrol tank.- explosion risk.
if the rest of the tank is intact, the affected aria may be patched and sealed with new metal. and the entire thing re painted.
try not to fill-up to max as it's obvious you haven't for decades.
Good luck.
TT.
Sad to hear of your prob, It is possible that the overheating of the engine may have done some damage.
you'll have to get some tests done on the engine before dismantling of the head for repair.
TT.
P.s, Where do you live? - for a place can be recommenced
As Davy mentioned, wear and tear.
It may be a big issue when it fails. the noises may be due to wear and lack of lubrication .Is the A/c system cooling adequately?
you might try topping up some refrigerant with oil and get some time and money for a replacement compressor.
and just make sure all cooling fans are working with the A/C and hose the condenser for good measure as it'll keep system pressures normal and cooling efficiency high.
cheers.
TT.
Q: Where do you live?
Yours used to be a fairly common car to find parts for. you can try PKW, Samarasdinghe Windscreen House or LP Goonarathne Darly road, who will fit it for you with a warrenty.
TT.
Better run-in the engine and do a consumption test. try driving without a/c. And check with a full tank.How sure are you of the fuel station's pump accuracy?
TT.
As my colligues have diagnosed , you have a leak, and the smell comes from the oil and the refrigirant leaking from the evaporator .
p.s. Just out of curiosity, what is your car?
TT.
Increasing the amp rating is not the cure for your prob. What year is your vehicle?
Does it have an electronically regulated alternator.?
To what voltage does it chargeat?
Kindly refer previous discussions on this sub.
TT.
Price not being a determinant factor, I'd go with Michelin, Theyill give you long tread life and good handling.
And for shocks, better replaced in pairs,
TT.
What is the condition of the c.v. boots now? Are they broken? if so, they must be replaced with new grease immediately to avoid wear on the joints.
I'd measure their lifetime on the distace travelled without grease with broken boots. - the higher distance run without lubrication, the lower the lifetime of the joint.
TT.