securing OMC plastic fuel tank in speedboat.

[deerhound]

My fuel tank sits on top of a sliding wooden panel which is about 4 inches below level of rear floor area (below panel is access to bilge pump)the fuel tank sits nicely in there but should I be trying to secure it with ratchet type nylon straps over length and breadth of tank, I can imagine when tank is full it may not move much but might start to jump out of position as fuel gets used up, or would it be OK just sitting in position, if it needs securing what would be best method of holding to floor area (eye bolts) any advice please JBD

 

[fishingdan]

Re: securing OMC plastic fuel tank in speedboat.

I wouldn't worry too much. If it is recessed as you say, then it can't move very far. To keep it in the well, you could use a tempo above deck tie down kit. They work ok. You could also use simple bungie cord(s).

 

[SiggiJo]

Re: securing OMC plastic fuel tank in speedboat.

Hi Lurcher - Tempo kits are overpriced for what they are. Do a search on Ebay.co.uk for "Webbing Bridges". They come in 316 stainless - get a couple of 40 mm ones and screw and seal them down on both sides of tank. Go to Poundstretcher or something similar and buy one of those nylon security straps with plastic buckle - that are supposed to be used for suitcases. They are usually about an inch wide and even come in different colours - you might even find one that matches your boat! Cut the strap in the middle - stitch the ends around the webbing bridges so you have a tight fit around the tank when buckle is closed and you have a durable custom made strap system for a couple of quids and you know your tank is secure. Good luck!

 

[deerhound]

Re: securing OMC plastic fuel tank in speedboat.

SiggiJo many thanks, I can't say I have come accross these before and don't know what they look like? was wondering about cutting the chrome metal brackets from car seat belts but I think I'm into the overkill again, just don't want the tank to be blowing around in the breeze and spraying fuel! how are you getting on with your boat? here doing some wee jobs but slowed down with weather, wonder if you use Practical Boat Owner site? JBD

 

[SiggiJo]

Re: securing OMC plastic fuel tank in speedboat.

The nylon strap is used to strap tightly around suitcases in case they accidentally open up during bagage handling. Using car seat belt and buckles to fabricate a hold down strip is a fine idea and if you have a seat belt already, go for it. When it comes to security and safety, overkill is good and bouncing fuel tanks are bad. One strip across should be fine but you will still need to get some good attachement points and those Webbing Bridges I mentioned before are just right for that - you will probably find them at chandlers or ironmongary stores as well - but maybe not in stainless.<br /><br />Boat coming along slowly but surely. Question of juggling time as usually. Hope to have it seaworthy by Apr/May. Cant wait! Hope to post pics then. All the best.