Our new old boat was delivered to today and I spent most of the day taking all the junk out of it, and storing it for the repair season. I noticed the fule tamk is original, it has a tag with serial number, gallons, and date of manufactur on it. I see no leaks at the moment, but will look more tomorrow. Is there any good reason to replace an aluminum tank if its not leaking. The boat has a lot of interior work to be done, and if there is a good reason to replace the tank now would be the opportune time to do it.
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Have it at least tested
I just discovered a very minor leak in my aluminum tank on my 92 hunter 33.5 I suspect it is a weld that has devoled a leak. The leak is very minor and likely only leaks when there is a vibration in the boat, but it is only going to get worse. It is going to be a miserable job of getting the tank out as Hunter for what ever reason built the boat around the tank. In any event it is coming out. If I was you I would pull the tank and at least have it preasure tested and cleaned
I just discovered a very minor leak in my aluminum tank on my 92 hunter 33.5 I suspect it is a weld that has devoled a leak. The leak is very minor and likely only leaks when there is a vibration in the boat, but it is only going to get worse. It is going to be a miserable job of getting the tank out as Hunter for what ever reason built the boat around the tank. In any event it is coming out. If I was you I would pull the tank and at least have it preasure tested and cleaned
Tough choice.
My 1979 H37C has an aluminum tank and has not leaked. But I do know of some that have. The problem with replacement is the odd shape. Tempo makes several sizes and shapes of poly tanks but nothing that would fit where mine sits. So you end up finding something that you can fit in the space and losing several gallons of fuel capacity. Another option is to have a custom poly tank built to match the one you remove. This can be done but is expensive. You might also consider opening up the tank and glassing the interior. You will need a large opening and a very good book describing the procedure. Options that I think you should avoid are: replacing with a bladder tank, building a new aluminum tank, building a stainless tank.
My 1979 H37C has an aluminum tank and has not leaked. But I do know of some that have. The problem with replacement is the odd shape. Tempo makes several sizes and shapes of poly tanks but nothing that would fit where mine sits. So you end up finding something that you can fit in the space and losing several gallons of fuel capacity. Another option is to have a custom poly tank built to match the one you remove. This can be done but is expensive. You might also consider opening up the tank and glassing the interior. You will need a large opening and a very good book describing the procedure. Options that I think you should avoid are: replacing with a bladder tank, building a new aluminum tank, building a stainless tank.
Replace it!
I bought my '79 H30 Cherubini this past July. The fuel tank was replaced prior to my making the purchase with a plastic Tempo 11.5 gal. (#640020), or 15.75 (#640054). It should go without saying, I was delighted that I didn't have that expense and headache in front of me. I cannot stress enough that my opinion is replace the aluminum with a new plastic. I base this on my inspection of the metal fresh water tank which is really showing its age. Measure the space before you buy. The survey on my H30 said I have 15 gal., but it looks smaller. I need to make measurements to be certain since I cannot read the manufacturer's tag. However, this is not a major concern. With the Yanmar YSM12, I get 20 hours of motoring. Nonetheless, I carry at least one five gal. jerry can even on overnighters. The Tempo tanks are fitted with 1 1/2" fill, 1/4" pickup and 5/8 vent. A sending unit is included. It appears that the old tank was removed and the new installed through the engine access hatch (the companionway steps) and over the engine. The bulkhead in the lazzarette was removed to facilitate installation of hold downs and hoses. You should make all wiring connections for the sending unit at installation. I am not trying to sell Tempo. That's whats on my boat which should be about the same. Regardless, there is nothing worse than a leaky fuel tank except maybe a leaky holding tank. Replace it now.
I bought my '79 H30 Cherubini this past July. The fuel tank was replaced prior to my making the purchase with a plastic Tempo 11.5 gal. (#640020), or 15.75 (#640054). It should go without saying, I was delighted that I didn't have that expense and headache in front of me. I cannot stress enough that my opinion is replace the aluminum with a new plastic. I base this on my inspection of the metal fresh water tank which is really showing its age. Measure the space before you buy. The survey on my H30 said I have 15 gal., but it looks smaller. I need to make measurements to be certain since I cannot read the manufacturer's tag. However, this is not a major concern. With the Yanmar YSM12, I get 20 hours of motoring. Nonetheless, I carry at least one five gal. jerry can even on overnighters. The Tempo tanks are fitted with 1 1/2" fill, 1/4" pickup and 5/8 vent. A sending unit is included. It appears that the old tank was removed and the new installed through the engine access hatch (the companionway steps) and over the engine. The bulkhead in the lazzarette was removed to facilitate installation of hold downs and hoses. You should make all wiring connections for the sending unit at installation. I am not trying to sell Tempo. That's whats on my boat which should be about the same. Regardless, there is nothing worse than a leaky fuel tank except maybe a leaky holding tank. Replace it now.
I think your right
I think your right, the motor is coming out so now seems like the best time to be sure, I will follow up on the Tempo Tanks. Thanks a bunch.
I think your right, the motor is coming out so now seems like the best time to be sure, I will follow up on the Tempo Tanks. Thanks a bunch.
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