My original metal holding tank is leaking, and it appears that I must replace it. Any advice from experience on that? Can I repair it? Hunter advises that I cut a hole in the bulkhead of the aft cabin for removal, but that does not appeal to me. Can't I cut it up somehow? And, if I need to replace it, what advice does anyone have in terms of a new tank, and it's size? I would prefer using the lazerette opening for removal and replacement. Thanks Raymond
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Don't even think of trying to repair it
The first leak in a metal holding tank is ONLY the first leak...others will follow quickly. Cut the necessary access in the bulkhead--something the builder should have provided when the boat was built. Not only do you have to get the tank out (yes, you can cut it up to do that), but you have to get a new one in (no, you can't cut it up to do that). Your best source for a new tank is Ronco Plastics...they make TOP quality thick-walled tanks for a very reasonable price and have more than 400 shapes and sizes to choose from--over 100 of which are non-rectangular. And they install the fittings in the sizes and locations specified by the customer when they make the tank. Their catalog is on their website at http://www.ronco-plastics.com On your boat in your waters, I suggest you try for something in the 25-28 gallon range. As long as you have to replace the tank, this would be the time to replace the hoses too...and rebuild and lubricate the toilet.
The first leak in a metal holding tank is ONLY the first leak...others will follow quickly. Cut the necessary access in the bulkhead--something the builder should have provided when the boat was built. Not only do you have to get the tank out (yes, you can cut it up to do that), but you have to get a new one in (no, you can't cut it up to do that). Your best source for a new tank is Ronco Plastics...they make TOP quality thick-walled tanks for a very reasonable price and have more than 400 shapes and sizes to choose from--over 100 of which are non-rectangular. And they install the fittings in the sizes and locations specified by the customer when they make the tank. Their catalog is on their website at http://www.ronco-plastics.com On your boat in your waters, I suggest you try for something in the 25-28 gallon range. As long as you have to replace the tank, this would be the time to replace the hoses too...and rebuild and lubricate the toilet.
Holding Tank On A 30T
Sounds like you have a 30T if your holding tank is behind the aft cabin bulkhead. I replaced the tank on my 30T and can send you tank model and source, as well as photographs and instructions as to how I did it if this is what you are looking for. If so, send me a reply through the Owner's Directory. Roy Mosteller San Diego SEA JOY (1991 30T)
Sounds like you have a 30T if your holding tank is behind the aft cabin bulkhead. I replaced the tank on my 30T and can send you tank model and source, as well as photographs and instructions as to how I did it if this is what you are looking for. If so, send me a reply through the Owner's Directory. Roy Mosteller San Diego SEA JOY (1991 30T)
Bulkhead Access Panel
I replaced the holding tank on my 1992 Hunter 28. I don't think there is any other option, but to cut an access panel. If you cut up the old tank to get it out you will have to replace it with a small odd sized tank that will fit through the lazerette lid. Also, it will be very tough to tie the new tank down and replace the hoses. The access panel approach is easier than it sounds. Measure carefully and use a jigsaw to cut a generous opening. Do a neat rectangular cut so you can reuse the plywood cut-out panel. Seal the cut plywood edges and use teak molding and SS screws to close the opening. I used 2 nylon straps with ratchet buckles for tie-downs. Also, this would be a good time to check and clean your fuel tank and check fuel hoses.
I replaced the holding tank on my 1992 Hunter 28. I don't think there is any other option, but to cut an access panel. If you cut up the old tank to get it out you will have to replace it with a small odd sized tank that will fit through the lazerette lid. Also, it will be very tough to tie the new tank down and replace the hoses. The access panel approach is easier than it sounds. Measure carefully and use a jigsaw to cut a generous opening. Do a neat rectangular cut so you can reuse the plywood cut-out panel. Seal the cut plywood edges and use teak molding and SS screws to close the opening. I used 2 nylon straps with ratchet buckles for tie-downs. Also, this would be a good time to check and clean your fuel tank and check fuel hoses.
Just finished replacing mine
I finally finished replacing my leaking metal tank with the help from Roy's info and photos. I was able to get old tank out without cutting any access hole as I have some experience using a flash light, mirror and long phillips screw driver to get the inaccesible screws out that hold tank in place. Then I found that the old hoses have to be moved out of position to do the pivot to get tank in position to pull up through hole (that was not on Roy's guide but after a few choice words that would make a sailor blush I got it out) The hole corroded through the bottom of the tank was so large I could put my finger through it.... Then when I replaced all the hoses I learned the ky jelly and heat gun trick... Thanks again Roy for all your help.
I finally finished replacing my leaking metal tank with the help from Roy's info and photos. I was able to get old tank out without cutting any access hole as I have some experience using a flash light, mirror and long phillips screw driver to get the inaccesible screws out that hold tank in place. Then I found that the old hoses have to be moved out of position to do the pivot to get tank in position to pull up through hole (that was not on Roy's guide but after a few choice words that would make a sailor blush I got it out) The hole corroded through the bottom of the tank was so large I could put my finger through it.... Then when I replaced all the hoses I learned the ky jelly and heat gun trick... Thanks again Roy for all your help.
You Are Welcome
Bob - You are welcome. Glad I could help. I mailed my material off to Ray today and I hope he finds it helpful. I still don't know how you could possibly remove the anchors as you described. I could barely see them using a mirror and there was no way I could have gotten a tool on them as there was insufficient clearance above the tank to get my hand there. Will be interesting to hear how Ray gets the anchors out. I bet he resorts to a bulkhead cut like I did. To any 30T owner out there who wants a set of my photos and instructions concerning holding tank removal just let me know by message through the Owner's Directory.
Bob - You are welcome. Glad I could help. I mailed my material off to Ray today and I hope he finds it helpful. I still don't know how you could possibly remove the anchors as you described. I could barely see them using a mirror and there was no way I could have gotten a tool on them as there was insufficient clearance above the tank to get my hand there. Will be interesting to hear how Ray gets the anchors out. I bet he resorts to a bulkhead cut like I did. To any 30T owner out there who wants a set of my photos and instructions concerning holding tank removal just let me know by message through the Owner's Directory.
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