Steel tank v Plastic

[andrewkafp]

Started restoring my'70's Mercury portable fuel tanks. They are the red steel type with fuel gauge and Merc fuel pickup. After orbital sanding rust from around the base (outside) and relacing gasket etc, I looked inside to find a small amout of fuel, absolutely soiled with what looks like rust particals. The intention was to bring them back to original condition.<br />I am now considering junking them for these<br /> http://www.milde.com.au/fueltanks.html <br />They are lighter, don't need painting, have fuel gauge and pickup, don't rust, are approved to Aust standard, Don't heat up as much. don't scratch boat and are only @$60.00 AUD.<br />Anyone have any reason not to buy a couple.

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Steel tank v Plastic

Go for it Mate:<br />Just keep em out of the sun or they won't last as long as your metal ones. Even though your metal ones look ugly and have some rust inside they still probably hold fuel. As rumor has it, it might be harder to keep them out of the sun, down your way, as it would be up here in the not so great PNW. We just went under the clouds today and may not emerge until next July 4th. Need a good boatin' mate down your way?

 

[braindead0]

Re: Steel tank v Plastic

Stop by a motorcycle shop and get some fuel tank 'coating' stuff...looks like white glue. The kits usually come with some acid to etch and clean the inside. I forget what the stuff is called, but it should be fairly easy to find.<br /><br />I've used this on rusty motorcycle tanks many times, and it's awesome.<br /><br />** Just remembered the name of the stuff, "Kreem" perhaps a bit pricey unless you wanted to 'restore' the tank.<br /><br />A search from "Kreem fuel tank liner" will turn up tons of information.

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: Steel tank v Plastic

Thanx for the replies. I think, after calculating the cost of all the restoration materials, paint, gaskets and rust treatment, plus I already own 1 25Litre polyethylene tank, I might just buy an extra 12litre poly tank for my 6hp Aux and keep them out of the sun.<br />Boomyal, yep we have just started spring here and the whether is picking up, but you guys have some magnificent lakes in Canada and where we are, we only have 2 large saltwater bays.<br />The boat is always gararged and covered, and the tanks are hidden under the rear seats, so the sun should not have much affect. Iboats is a great site to swap ideas and learn boat stuff and we have nothing that compares to it here. Feel free to ask anything about boating life in Aus..