Gas tank repair/replacement

vince0202

Cadet
Joined
Apr 4, 2020
Messages
6
Hey guys I have a 1984 bayliner trophy 2060 that I recently purchased. This weekend I filled her up after months of redoing engine only to get my bilge full of fuel. No I did not pump into see I safely removed and took to hazardous recycling center. So overnight I lost almost a half a tank so I doubt it’s a leaky hose. I’m going to pressure test tank to see if tank is the failure. So my boat has an aluminum 40 gallon tank and it’s currently non accessible and will need to be cut out. No foam but the tank is in the decking. So what tools would be preferred to use for the actual cuts and also when I’m done resealing tank what would be best repair for floor on a budget? Needs to be strong as high traffic area on the stern of boat. Saw a product from west marine called marine Tex say it’s dries like steel. Trying easiest cheapest fix. Area is about 14”x 65” thanks in advance guys
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,331
If thank is aluminum, and original, it may have developed a series of pinhole leaks from corrosion. Repair is not likely. Source a plastic replacement tank or about the same size.
 

Grub54891

Admiral
Joined
Jun 17, 2012
Messages
6,246
I'm sure it smells like fuel in the entire boat by now. Not good, its the fumes that explode. Not sure how to get it cleaned out enough to prevent the boom factor. Remove the rest of the fuel from the tank first, possibly fill it with water so no fumes are remaining in the tank itself. Possibly you will find the leak with water. Remember, pressure testing a tank, don't go over five lbs of pressure. It can explode from the pressure also. Scrubbing the bilge in every nook and cranny with bilge wash or dish soap might get it clean? Hope others chime in on this one. Repairing is just a band aid for future problems. Ever patched an automotive tank and have a leak in a new spot a few weeks later? Yup, it happens.
 

kcassells

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Oct 16, 2012
Messages
8,739
Well obviosly you eed to pull the tank and review the issues. In addition to getting
all the areas cleaned up.
Post up some pics.
 
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