FUEL TANK REPAIR

[MESS147415]

Hi boaters. I have finally found the source of a fuel smell whenever i uncover my boat - on removing the tank which is an aluminium fabrication, ive discovered a minute crack in one of the welds on the tanks base. The amount of fuel leaking is minimal - it just wets the surafce after about a minute.The rest of the tank appears in very good condition and would be an expensive item to replace. The question is, what is the best way to repair it? I have seen numerous epoxy compounds and even some anaerobic weld sealing compounds - anyone any experience here please? I've assumed weld repair is a not starter! thanks steve

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Empty the tank.Sand and clean spot with acetone and get gas tank epoxy from an auto parts store or marine center.Charlie

 

[sporter]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

I used JB Weld on the gas tank of my ATV. Its' been holding for a month now. I didn't drain the tank, just kept it upside down until the JB set up.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Bad practice I know, but ...<br /><br />I had a leaking tank, so gouged out the tiny crack to make a 'v' - then filled it with auto body filler. It was an emergency repair years ago, and it's never been touched since.<br /><br />If your tank's easy to get to, it's worth a try, but if it's a 'once in it stays in' job, better get it fixed a bit better than I did!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Stillfishing,there is no way it was auto body filler if it worked.The gas would get right through that.Charlie

 

[swist]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Make sure this leak is really the result of a faulty weld - if this tank has been in contact with saltwater, it could be corrosion damage which indicates you are about to have leaks in other places. Replacing the tank is your only option in that case.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

You removed the tank. While out you should clean it out real good then take it somewhere to be welded. A gas tank in a boat is not like a car. If after a repair a cars tank drips it falls on the ground. When a boat leaks it leaks into you boat (like you know) no place for a half A$$ repair.<br /> Spend the money it may save your life.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Steve, The best fix is to have it welded. Usually they will ask that you wash it out with soapy water to remove the gas fumes, prior to welding. If you do not want to do that, then sand the area until it is clean and a bit rough, wipe it with acetone and patch it with Marine-Tex. I recommend you cut a bit of fiberglass cloth and spread the marine tex on it and then apply it to the hole and trowel it smooth with more Marine-Tex. I have used this method several times and it works good!

 

[18rabbit]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Ditto Crazy Charlie...especially the part about cleaning the area before any repairs.

 

[MESS147415]

Re: FUEL TANK REPAIR

Thanks guys. Ive found a local contractor who will weld it for me after ive had it steam cleaned inside and out. After that ill have it pressure tested - feel paranoid about fuel leaks now! Also going to fit a blower system over the winter as none currently fitted. steve