Fiberglass fuel tank replacement in a Bertram

gang green

Recruit
Joined
Sep 8, 2010
Messages
3
I need to remove the fiberglass fuel tank in my 1973 25 foot Bertram Sport Fisherman and cannot figure out a way to get the old tank out of the hull. Has anyone found a way to remove one of these from the hull? It appears to be fiberglassed to the hull bottom and I don't have a clue as to how to get it out. Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks for any help.
 

drewpster

Commander
Joined
Oct 17, 2006
Messages
2,059
Re: Fiberglass fuel tank replacement in a Bertram

I have seen a very large (1000-1200 gallon) fiberglass tank installed in a large Bertram sportfish. If memory serves the tank was glassed in as part of the build process in the bare hull. If your tank needs to be replaced, it may be necessary to cut out. (assuming Bertram used the same method on your boat)
It may benefit you to contact Bertram directly to verify how the tank was installed. If it has to be cut out, it may only be necessary to cut the top out of the old tank. If you can get to it, the old tank body would be perfect place to put in a new aftermarket tank.

Note- Be careful cutting fuel tanks. Fiberglass can carry a static charge. It may be a good idea to fill the tank with water to displace potentially explosive fumes while doing the cutting. And make sure any fuel lines, filter housings or gas that has spilled in to the hull are removed before cutting. Be safe, dont guess. If you are not confident you can do it safely, hire a professional.
 

Yacht Dr.

Vice Admiral
Joined
Feb 26, 2005
Messages
5,581
Re: Fiberglass fuel tank replacement in a Bertram

Hello Green and welcome to Iboats.

Pics would be wonderfull..

YD.
 

CTJeff

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Nov 9, 2009
Messages
33
Re: Fiberglass fuel tank replacement in a Bertram

I just cut the glass fuel tank out of my 20 Berty Bahi Mar. On mine I had an access hatch. I drained out the gas disconnected the lines & wires covered the holes sawzawed the glass attaching the tank to the forward bulk head then I took a 2x4 and pried the tank back and forth until it broke lose from the bottom glass. I found it to be brittle and the tank came out intact.
Jeff:cool:
 
Last edited:

CTJeff

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Nov 9, 2009
Messages
33
Re: Fiberglass fuel tank replacement in a Bertram

GG-
re-read my previous post. It is clearer now:rolleyes:
Jeff
 
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