Fuel Tank sending unit screw problem

[pcmpete]

I have been testing my fuel tank, slight leak from the sending unit, so I replaced it. Tested again and noticed a leak from one of the sending unit fitting screw. I tried just to tighten it the slightest bit, but the thread in the tank stripped out.

What are my options to fix this?

I am thinking of fitting a bigger screw and hand cutting new threads with the screw itself in the tank. Is this good or bad?

Thanks iBoaters

 

[oops!]

Re: Fuel Tank sending unit screw problem

larger screw and marine/re sealant..... done

 

[djpeters]

Re: Fuel Tank sending unit screw problem

I had the exact same thing happen. My screws were #10 (.1875" dia.) and I had one strip, I tried a 5.0mm (.197" dia.) and that .010" larger size was enough to get it to bite. Otherwise, like Ooops said, go up another size.

 

[pcmpete]

Re: Fuel Tank sending unit screw problem

The stripped one was a 1/4" metal screw, so I replaced it with a 5/16" one. The sealant is currently curing so I will pressure test it again tomorrow.

Thanks for the help guys.

 

[merc120_81]

Re: Fuel Tank sending unit screw problem

The stripped one was a 1/4" metal screw, so I replaced it with a 5/16" one. The sealant is currently curing so I will pressure test it again tomorrow.

Thanks for the help guys.

Same issue here.. I wound up cutting new threads and going to a 1/4 20 thread bolt, worked like a champ. I had to ream out the holes in the sending unit flange, and the rubber gasket, but the new thread bit. I did try to just re cut the existing threads but too much material was gone. I also put an extra inline filter ahead of my main filter after the tapping/repair work.