Fuel Tank sub floor replacement

[EagleOCNJ]

Another question: In my 1878 23 CC should the new floor piece actually touch the centerline stringer in the hull? The way have it cut now it is about a half inch above it. The deck is 29 inches and my new tank is 28.

I could trim it down since its not glassed or installed yet or I could put a strip of wood or starboard on the stringer. I dont want to trim the piece too much or it would not accomodate the tank width. I guess I could trim it 1/2 inch and it would lower it the same amt. - right?

I have the tank measurements vs. the compartment dimensions on as of now the way it is. Tank is 106 L x 28 W x 12 H plus two more inches for the fill. I have 15 inches to work with heightwise now and 29 width minus the epoxy build up at the plank to hull joint.

Any other last minute ideas before I get rolling? Also the new tank will have four metal tabs along each side to accept two screws in each. Im against foam but think that this may not be enough to secure the 1200 lb tank / bomb. How about a couple or four wood "straps" across the top glassed / screwed in?

By the way - I itch like a mofo!