[C38] fuel tank replacement?

[Rich West]

How about just repairing the existing tank in place?  From what I
understand, it's usually just the lowest corner (forward, port) that
corrodes.  I've heard of some people having it welded (in place) and others
using an epoxy coating inside the tank.

I cut two inspection holes in the top of my tank about 8 or 10 inches in
diameter so that I can get in the tank to clean it.  That wasn't a fun job
but wasn't too bad either.  The reason for two inspection holes is that
there is a baffle in the middle of the tank.

Good luck.

Rich
Legacy, #360 



-----Original Message-----
From: listserve-bounces at catalina38.org
[mailto:listserve-bounces at catalina38.org] On Behalf Of D. R. Strong
Sent: Tuesday, September 04, 2007 8:47 AM
To: c38; Catalina 38 List Server
Subject: [C38] fuel tank replacement?

Dear C38 list.
    "The time has come," and it wasn't a walrus that said it but about
1/4 of a cup of bright red diesel in the bilge. The diesel is there each
week and takes about 5 days to appear clearly.  The tank location makes the
source of the leak hard to pin down. I can find no leaks in the fuel lines
or engine.  The 20 gallon tank is dated, 1979, and Discreet Charm is a 1980
model Catalina 38. So, my inference is that the tank is original and has
corroded though.
    Best way to remove and replace? How about cutting the top off a section
of the fiberglass molding supporting the Vberth? A careful cut could be
replaced after the install of the new tank. We are contemplating a larger
tank that would be beveled on the starboard edge; some quick arithmetic from
my trusty 8th grade geometry suggests we might be able to get a 30 gallon
tank in there. The electrical upgrade made by a previous owner put the
engine battery close behind the tank, so sternward expansion of a
replacement tank would be a huge job.
    All suggestions and observations welcomed!
ta,
   

-- 

Don and Karine Strong
C38 Discreet Charm
Emery Cove, San Francisco Bay.



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