"Mys Terry" wrote in message
I'm thinking that 56 years is just
plain TOO OLD. The damage that will be caused to the house and contents if
the
tank fails is enormous compared to the cost of a new tank.


Not really old at all. There are plenty of 50 and 60 and 70 and 100 year old
metal products still giving good service. Has the tank ever been tested?
Go to any big city that uses a lot of oil and you will find tanks of that
age still in great shape. There are variables that come into play and at
that age non-destructive testing may be called for to give you peace of
mind. Much cheaper that a new tank.

You house, your money so do what makes you comfortable.