Fuel Tank feeding Mercruiser 4.3

[pcm]

I have a 1989 Sea Ray with a Mercruiser 4.3 petrol (gasolene) engine. I've been carrying out some basic safety checks before the season starts and have found that the fuel tank has a plate which tells me that it is made from aluminium and that it 'should be checked out regularly for corrosion'. Can anyone advise me if corrosion is a real problem for this type of tank? How often should it checked out and is it likely to corrode in any particular place??? I always thought this material would be safe from a corrosion point of view - am I wrong?
Any advice welcome
Thanks

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Fuel Tank feeding Mercruiser 4.3

Well, almost any metal oxidizes but no, it is not generally a problem, unless you let large amounts of sea water sit in your bilge......
I would inspect the areas where the pick up tube, fill inlet, & fuel sender are, but generally, you don't have access to inspect it.........
Keeping a close eye on your bilge for signs of gas is about the best you can do.....​

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Fuel Tank feeding Mercruiser 4.3

PCM, If you boat in salt water, corrosion can occur. On my '88 SeaRay Sorrento, there was a panel in the floor infront of the motor which allowed access to the fuel tank. I pulled mine out one day, when it was near empty and checked the bottom for corrosion. I found a bit, but the tank was still OK.

BTW - I boat only in salt water.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Fuel Tank feeding Mercruiser 4.3

If you boat in salt water, corrosion can occur.

Ayuh,.....

It Don't Matter What Water you're boating in,....
We have the Same Issues up here on the Sweetwater Seas,.....

2 places jump out at me for Corrosion Issues on Aluminum Tanks,......
1st is Anywhere the tank Contacts it's supports,..
Whatever it's laying on, where they meet will Corrode.....
And,....
2nd place is at it's Lowest Point, Inside the tank,.....
If it ever had Any Water laying in it during it's life,...aka. Fuel Contamination,...
That's a Special Place to be inspecting....