Re: Removing a fuel tank
I read the plastic tanks release gas vapors
Yes and no. If you buy a plastic tank made before the new EPA rules went into effect (January 1, 2012) the tank does emit some vapor, but the amount is so small that you can't even smell it, and it doesn't present a hazard unless the amount is above 1.2 grams per cubic foot of volume (of the compartment) and then the compartment has to be ventilated. So most tank manufacturers made sure it never exceeded this amount. This works out to about 100 grams per square foot of surface area on the tank per 24 hour period. Again that amount is so small even a fume detector wouldn't register it. Those tanks have been used safely in boats for over 30 years without any problems. No I don't have any financial interest in them. I am retired USCG and used to regulate the people who make them.
Tanks made now under the new EPA rule have to emit less than 15 grams per day!. That is so minuscule it's even hard to measure in a lab. Plastic tanks don't corrode, they have no seams to break or leak, and last almost forever. They pass the USCG requirements for strength and fire resistance, as do metal tanks. They are not affected by ethanol or any of the other solvents and toxic stuff they put in gasoline these days. The one in my 1972 Sea Ray is about 30 years old. Their big drawback is they only go up to about 100 gallons because they are not baffled. Most of the problems with plastic tanks have been due to human error, people drilling holes in them or putting a screw in the deck that penetrates the tank, or not securing them adequately. There have been some issues with badly fitting gaskets but that was about 10 years ago.
Frankly I'll take a plastic tank over a metal one anytime.
got the tank out and found a hole in the bottom. about the size a BB..
