'89 23' CC fuel tank condition

[ocuyler]

I finally got to start the long awaited rework of my 23. After removing the console and the fuel cell hatch, I found the entire 8' long panel to be rotted as the glass work on the bottom wasn't finished well and let water in as the caulk failed. Fortunately, everything else looks great.

My consern is with the fuel cell. I can't believe it's 8' long! Is there a way to test it or any thoughts on the wisdom of replacing it or removing it to see what's up down there? What about the foam? Should I repack it when the new panals go back on?

She gets fresh paint and all new hardware. I'd hate to have to go back in there.

Thanks in advance.

Otto

[EBEACH]

Otto,

This should help: http://www.yachtsurvey.com/fueltank.htm

This website has some great information on boat surveying and repairs.

[FELLOW-SHIP]

I replaced my gas tank on my 1977 23’ when I did the whole boat. I found pit marks about ½ the way through the aluminum tank where salt water was held next to the tank by the foam. I also found that the wood support under the gas tank was totally rotten and was in need to be replaced. You will only know about your tank if you pull the whole thing out to inspect it. The places that could be damaged would be on the sides of the tank and the bottom plus the plywood deck that holds it in place. I used the David Pascoe method of re installing my new tank and if you take it out that method is the best I know to replace it. You also could have the tank pressure tested to see if I still good. For me I didn’t want to spend all this time re doing a boat and then have to go back and replace the tank afterwards I spent $600.00 on a new 120 gal tank down here I got quotes all the way up to $1,200 for my tank.
Fellow-ship [img]images/icons/cool.gif[/img]

[ocuyler]

Fellowship,

Thanks for the input. I know you were going to say to pull it out. I don't mind doing it cause the demolition is half the fun. However, I'd have to cut out the fiberglass lip that holds the hatch in place, but you're right, it would suck to have to go back in there.

Is your new tank baffled and how did you secure it?

Regards,

Otto

[Billybob]

Otto - Like fellowship says, pull it out.I don't know what you mean by the f/g lip - it must be different than my 73.It seems odd that they would put the "lip" down after the tank was in there assuming its part of the deck.My tank is about 100 gallons, and when I pulled it, the bottom had some surface corrosion beginning, but I just sanded it down and sealed it with a good alum finish (forget what I used), and then reinstalled, using Pascoe's method.My wood under it was rotted too, so I had to glass a new one in there first.You sure don't want to do it in a year or two.I am baffled that you would have to cut the lip off though - seems strange, got any pics?

[ocuyler]

BillyBob,

I sent you some images. Maybe there's enough room to tilt it up on one side and lift. (Thank God for forklifts) You'll see.

I guess I should drain the 300 pounds of fuel first, huh?

Thanks for your advice.

Otto