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Question
I need to replace (or repair?) the fuel tank(s) in my 46' sailboat. They are located midship and are under galley and saloon joinery. I have been told that the answer is to cut a hole in the fiberglass hull remove and replace the tanks and repair the opening. Is this a valid answer? Are there any company's that specialize in this type of work? If so, are any located to service the Chesapeake Bay area?
Submitted: 74 days and 11 hours ago.
Category: Boat
Value: $28
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information
Make (of engine): Ford Lehman
Model (of engine): 80HP 4 cyl.
Year: 1982
Horsepower: 80
Already Tried:
The tank issue on my boat is:There were originally 2 - 100 gal. tanks mounted either side of centerline athwartship. One tank has been abandoned, cut open on top and used for storage by previous owner. The other tank, which is steel, is developing leakage when full. I have reason to believe that a seam at the bottom of the tank has been compromised by rust and only weeps when the tank is loaded with fuel. I do not need both tanks, unless it's just as easy to replace both. The teak joinery above them is inticate and includes a marble countertop, removing it appears to be an extensive project.
Posted by
Captain Dave
74 days and 11 hours ago.
Answer
Hello. Yes, that is probably the way it will need to be done. When the boat was built the tanks, etc. were installed and then the deck was built. So now the only way to get the tank out is to cut the deck. In the Chesapeake Bay area you should have no problems finding a shop that will do that - check listings for fiberglass repair or just ask at a few marinas or dealers. Or just google for something like "Chesapeake fiberglass repairs" - that got me a list; you will want to insert your location in place of "Chesapeake". Sorry but I don't know of any that I can point you to.
74 days and 11 hours ago.
Reply
How large of an opening can be safely repaired? Does a surveyor need to be present or review and approve of the method of repair? I know of a boat that was lengthened by adding a section midship. The insurance company required a Naval Architect and a surveyor. Would you please offer your advice or knowlege of this issue.
Accepted Answer
The lengthening impacted the structural integrity of the vessel, so I understand their need for assurance. The process of removing the tank(s) should not affect the structure, so I doubt that would be required in this case. At worse they might want a surveyor to examine it, but I doubt it. As for size, they can actually cut away almost any size and repair it to full strength, but in general they will attempt to remove as little as necessary to get the tank out. It sounds like a major operation but it is actually quite straightforward (for someone who knows what he's doing and does it regularly).
Expert:
Captain Dave
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Answered:
9/9/2009
Marine Mechanic
USCG Licensed Captain, 20+ Years Boating, Fishing, Maintenance and Repair Experience
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