Junk in gas tank

[Craigw]

I bought an 87 capri bowrider 125 force outboard,<br />The boat had not been run in 5 years. I cannot find a drain on the gas tank and it looks like the boat was built around the tank so I cannot pull it. I havb two problems. this wood looking stuff keeps cogging the lines even after 5 or 6 tanks I do not know what it is or how to get rid of it. The other is I have a small leak in the tank somewhere. any suggestions.

 

[Hooty]

Re: Junk in gas tank

Hey Fullboat,<br />Welcome to tha board.<br />Cleaning your tank out can be done BUT, if you have a leak in the tank it's gotta come out. Fuel fumes in the bilge,even in an outboard, is seriously bad juju. I don't know what removing your tank entails but I'd certinally be getting it done before operating the boat.<br /><br />g'luck & c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[oldboat1]

Re: Junk in gas tank

Hi Fullboat. First priority would be the fuel leak. If you are sure the tank is leaking, you must have some sense where it is leaking. First locate the leak, then decide on a course of action. You may be able to patch a small leak without pulling the tank -- but use no heat.<br /><br />If the leak is fixed, you can try to clean the tank by carefully siphoning out sediment at the bottom. Then attach a large fuel filter inline to the engine (water separator-type with a cannister).<br /><br />If the tank is unusable, can be made safe but can't be removed, the other obvious alternative is to go to a portable plastic tank.<br /><br />Good luck.