Fuel tank access

[Doug Margison]

I have a problem with contamination in the fuel tank on my Hunter Sloop. I would like to change the diesel tank but the problem is it is located in a transom locker that has too small of an access to remove it. My second option is to clean the tank but it has no access opening. Externally the tank is in very good condition - no apparent contamination on the surface. I was thinking of cutting a 6" x 6" access opening in the top ot the tank which could be removed to clean the tank. Has anyone done this? I am planning to remove the fuel into jerry cans before cutting the hole with a drill and a sabre saw. Should I partially fill the tank with water as a precaution against fire hazard. What is recommended for a gasket between the access cover and the tank.Any suggestions / comments will be appreciated.Regards,Doug MargisonSV Mokum II

 

[Steve Dion]

More info.

Doug:We probably need a little more info. Are we talking about gas or diesel? What type of tank material? What boat?An excellent tank cleaner is Soy Diesel. You can run a tank of this thru the system (100%) and you will probably not need to cut the tank. The stuff is expensive but worth the cause. ($5/ gal USD) May be less expensive in the Candian economy.