Should I replace gas tank

[utskicat]

I am in the middle of having transom and deck replaced in my 1975 19" Fiberform Monterey ski boat. The original 30 gal steel tank was taken out and dipped to galvanized in 1995. Now it's 20 years later and since the floor is out I'm wondering if I should replace it. The fibreglass shop can get a polyethylene replacement (with sender and baffles) for $450 CAD (in in Canada). There is no outside signs of corrosion but who knows what the inside looks like. Thoughts guys?!

 

[G_Hipster]

I know what I would do. My luck as soon as I put gas back in it, it would leak. Yeah it's a chunk of change, Tanks rust from the inside out, pinholes, fuel vapors accumulating etc, and you're already there with easy access. Peace of mind. I'm not a fan of internal coatings.

 

[Scott Danforth]

pull the sending unit and look in it.

 

[jerryjerry05]

IF??? there is any rot/ corrosion or gunk built up in there the filters would show you, you have a problem.
​Do like Scott suggested. Remove the sender and get a bore scope or camera.

​If the boats been in fresh water? then the corrosion or rust should be small?
Pics?

 

[gm280]

I have to agree with the "take a look inside" advice group. That is the only way to know for sure. If it look good, clean it all out and be ready for it to be reinstalled again. A simple cleaning and look is a heck of a lot cheaper then a replacement. JMHO

 

[utskicat]

I will try to do a visual inspection later this week. So you guys think that if there are no signs of corrosion its safe to leave alone? My concern was that if I don't see any signs, is it still likely to fail regardless of condition due to age? I've read some stuff online that 40 year old tanks should not be trusted regardless of signs. I didn't know if a galvanization 20 years ago helped or hurt the odds.

 

[gm280]

The absolute worst thing for any tank is to be empty. Air condensation can assist in rust forming. But if your tank hasn't seen any water intrusion and a camera view offers a nice interior, I would install it and happy boating. But it is your money and final decision. If you are leery about using it again, then replace it. After all you are the one that has to feel good about your boat. JMHO

 

[DeepBlue2010]

I would replace it no matter what for two main reasons. First, you are as close as you can ever get to it now; if it starts to leak in the future, you will have to undo everything you did to get to it.

Second, steel is heavy. 2.5 times denser than aluminium tank and who knows how many times heavier than the replacement plastic tank. This dead weight cost you money (fuel) so whatever you are spending on a replacement tank right now is coming back to you in the form of fuel savings.