Leaking fresh water tanks

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John Farrugia

Have taken a M510 out of charter. One of the fresh water tanks (under the floor in the galley ) is leaking when filled more than half way and can expect it to "drain" when on a starboard tack. It appears there is a row of screws that hold the "lid" of fiberglass in place, down, shut. Any one had this problem, surveyor told me it was common. I am looking for a fix with out tearing our the floor etc. I have removed the vent line and "blown" thru it, it appears to be unblocked. However when I fill the tanks (very gently, not turning on full) It starts to leak at the seams of the tanks and not up thru the vent. was thinking : remove screws and dry out with warm air over several days, rebed screws and new scres and use 3M 5200, I am trying not to tangle with fiberglass and WEST system repairs........ UPDATE I tried the 3m5200 with some success, I amthinking about purchasing one of those welf contained flexible tanks, removeing the lid and fixing them in place...... lining with neoprene to avoid chafe. Probably not the end of the world but a big nuissance, have read many other owners having the same problem and no fixes yet. Any input is much appreciated.
 

Rick D

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Jun 14, 2008
7,182
Hunter Legend 40.5 Shoreline Marina Long Beach CA
What I Would Do

Take all the screws out, take the cover off, re-bed the cover with 4200 and then bed each screw with same. My hunter 40.5 has the same deal. Just re-bedding the screws worked for me, but I know I'll have to do the lid itself at some time. Rick D.
 
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John farrugia

thanks but ......

The tank is easily 24 " by 36 " or so, the gasket material you speak of does it come in a spool where I can make a diagonal cut where the two ends meet ( like overlapping a stuffing box) or do I buy it in sheets and make a template from the lid. With the gasket material I understand you (peggy) recommend no caulks at all ?????? I have four tanks , two with "lids" that with a lot of work I should be able to effect your repair. The other two are amidships and appear to have been glassed into the boat. One I have tried to repair, my repair appears to be holding however other areas are "coming up", not as direct as having a lid. Not having worked with lots ofglass and West system etc, I am hesitant to not sure how to proceed. Thanks
 
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Steve D

Butyl Rubber Gasket.

John: I would suggest that you remove the lid and fill the holes in the tank with epoxy (marine tex or some other product). Then you can redrill all of these holes so they are the proper size for the screws. Then you can purchase some Butyl Rubber to make a gasket. I am going to post some pictures of the job that I just did. How large is the lid for the tank?
 
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john Farrugia

lid size

I will get back to you with the lid dimensions, Just wanted to reply so that you did not think I gave up
 
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