Replacing fuel tank

[raa]

I have a 1979 Cal Glass 18 1/2 foot boat that appears to have a leaking fuel tank. I have had fuel seep up through the floor into the sleeping compartment in the enclosed bow. This particular boat does not have an access panel to get to the tank, and the tank is sealed below the floor. My plan is to cut out the floor above the tank (between the stringers), replace the tank and re-fibreglass the floor. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions as to how this should be done? Thanks.

 

[Dick Sorensen]

Re: Replacing fuel tank

I removed the floor with a side grindeer..... took up the floor...made sure I didn't plunge too deep...just enough. Once the tank was exposed I got the mfr. plate data...contacted them with my needs and two weeks later had a new replacement tank....went in pretty slick. I did 'strenthen' every stringer and support with additional marine plywood....west system them in....installed the tank and then held it in place with fibreglass strips/straps.....really happy with the outcome. Good luck.

 

[MTribe08]

Re: Replacing fuel tank

Sounds like you have a good plan..what I would use to cut the deck is a SawsAll with an aggressive blade..You can control the depth really well with that, and it will cut through the glass and wood like butter. Good luck.

 

[Spinnaker]

Re: Replacing fuel tank

Your fuel tank should not be trapped down but rather set on rubber strips and if you wanted rubber strips on top. It shouldn't move but at the same time should be free floating. Here is a link from a valuable resource. Mind you it speaks of aluminum fuel tanks but the principles aside from aluminum corrosion still apply.

http://www.yachtsurvey.com/fueltank.htm

 

[oops!]

Re: Replacing fuel tank

this is a pic of a replacement after it was done....i typed a whole how to last night.....but when i hit send....it went poof and was gone !

 

[Bondo]

Re: Replacing fuel tank

i typed a whole how to last night.....but when i hit send....it went poof and was gone !

Ayuh,.... Don'tcha just Hate that,..??

Good to see ya Oops....

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Replacing fuel tank

i typed a whole how to last night.....but when i hit send....it went poof and was gone !

I ALWAYS do a copy before posting something huge for that very reason.