Directly placing gas tank on fiberglass

[LindenLongRods]

I'm replacing my aluminum gas tank (under deck)with a new one(aluminum) Is there any problem with placing the tank (belly) directly on fiberglass on bottom of boat or should I use some sort of buffer between wood ? tank and space where it will be installed willl be epoxied. Previous owner used spray foam but that is why I had to replace.

 

[rickryder]

Re: Directly placing gas tank on fiberglass

The tank should rest on some rubber strips held up off the fiberglass.....you don't want the tank to contact anything but the mounting flanges......you need air flow around the tank so water/moisture won't lay there and cause corrosion.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Directly placing gas tank on fiberglass

I've seen folks lay a tank on a few strips of old fire hose, sorta keeps it up off the floor. Probably lots of items you might use to sorta "nest" that tank in. Maybe some other types of industrial hoses, fabrics, or foams. Tank probably needs to be seated in/on something between tank and hull so air and water can move/circulate between them. Good Luck!

 

[seabob4]

Re: Directly placing gas tank on fiberglass

Here is a good read...http://newboatbuilders.com/pages/33CFR_Fuel.html

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Directly placing gas tank on fiberglass

The advise about allowing air circulation under metal tanks is right on the money. I spent last year totally rebuilding a near basket-case Checkmate, because the aluminum fuel tank was properly mounted with spacers to allow airflow underneath that 31 year old fuel tank was in perfect condition.