Fuel tank checking / cleaning tricks?

[autoarcheologist]

We are getting close to getting our "new" boat in the water, but I need to check and possibly clean out the 2 fuel tanks before filling them up.

On old cars I've typically just drained out the old gas, filled with fresh, run it for a bit then changed the fuel filter.

With a boat I'd prefer a more systematic approach to make sure we don't run out of go on the water.

One suggestion I read was to add a few gallons of alcohol to the tanks, slosh around, then siphon out. That sounds reasonable.

Any other suggestions? I'd prefer not to pull out the tanks if I can avoid it. They have been stored sealed and empty for years. The boat is a 1969 Reinell that hasn't been used since 1976!

Here's the boat: http://forums.iboats.com/forum/gene...ngine-topics/663555-1969-reinell-19-barn-find

Thanks!
Ian

 

[autoarcheologist]

Upon further research it looks like Starbrite Star Tron is the most recommended fuel cleaner. I think I'll start with that and a clear fuel filter. If I'm getting a ton of crud in the fuel filter I will have to pull the tanks and clean them more thoroughly.

Still looking for any recommendations from anybody who's been there.