sealing fuel tank floor access

[tidesright]

I just bought an early 1980's 19ft MFG caprice. It has a 1999 mercury 90hp outboard installed in 2000. The previous owner was ederly and passed away in 2003. We purchased the boat from friends for $1000.00.(boat, motor,trailer) She runs GREAT. The motor is spotless and estimated with less then 40hrs on it. It has been serviced by a local marine. Now that I have givin you the backround can you help? My problem is there is a rectangular access hatch in the floor which im told is the fuel tank access. It is screwed fast but the gasket material between the floor and the hatch is about 4inches short and leaves water in. There is a soft spot starting in this area. Im not sure im ready for some of the fiberglass repairs I have read about but I would like to replace the gasket to stop anymore water from getting around the hatch. Also, is there a simple fix for this soft area or does the softness indicate that the stringers in this area are rotting.

 

[alden135]

Re: sealing fuel tank floor access

You won't know the extent of the rot until you open it up. If it's just a small area of floor, there is no reason you can't cut out a piece and replace.

 

[DJ]

Re: sealing fuel tank floor access

Sorry to say, "soft" means rot. It's ususally more extensive than what first meets the eye.<br /><br />There is no reason you should have to access the top of the tank reqularly. I would just seal the hatch and secure it with stainless screws. (Watch the length!)

 

[tidesright]

Re: sealing fuel tank floor access

Thank you for the help! I think at this point I will seal to secure and fix rot later.