Old Fiberglass Fuel Tanks

[Sea Rider]

Been having leaking issues on old fiberglass fuel tanks, before we went E8 no issues, so E8 is the problem literally eating those tanks inside out, was wondering if aplying a new exterior fiberglass coat to complete tank will hold the leaks at least for some more years. A new tank is out of consideration.

Happy Boating

 

[tpenfield]

If you are looking for approval of that approach . . . . No.

Best and safest is to replace with a fuel tank compliant to today's fuels. It is well known that the new fuels eat fiberglass tanks for lunch.

 

[Georgesalmon]

Fiberglass tanks for gasoline were really never a good idea. For diesel they were pretty good. Best to use a portable tank until a new tank is in the picture. You could cover it with a new layer all over but not a good idea.

 

[robert graham]

The ethanol will eat it....you'll have to replace them with another material like polyethylene or aluminum...

 

[Frank Acampora]

And don't forget the eventual clogging due to fiberglass chips, strings, etc. PLUS-- the danger of a possible leak through the coating you apply!

All in all, it is a bad idea to try to salvage the tank for another season or two. Bite the bullet and get rid of the offender, even if it means using a temporary plastic tank for a while.

 

[robert graham]

Moeller makes lots of shapes, sizes and styles of trouble-free polyethylene tanks. By the time most folks are talking, thinking and worrying about the old Fiberglas tanks their structural integrity has already been compromised by the ethanol.....

 

[Sea Rider]

Thanks guys, will tell owner to follow your spot on tech advise.

Happy Boating