Fuel Tank Replacement - '88 Seacraft 18cc

[srussell]

Has anyone had any experience replacing a fuel tank on a 1988 Seacraft 18cc Tracker? Can the tank be easily lifted out of the hatch? Does anyone have any specs or photos of previous projects? What size tank does it take and where can I find a replacement?

[Keyscruz]

srussel, mine is a 78 18' which may be different from an 88 Tracker. The fuel tank was foamed in place. I used a tree saw to cut the foam on all four sides then made an A frame out of 2x4s and lifted it out useing a come-along. It seemed like a pain in the ass at first but further work has put in proper perspective. New custome alum tank was about $500.

[LTsHoney]

keyscruz, where did you find a leak when you removed the tank. I'm experiencing gas smell and minor leakage in bildge on my 83' 18 cc, and getting ready to remove the tank. Why did you choose to replace w/ aluminum.
LT

[Keyscruz]

LT, My tank was half full of water when I bought the boat. No leaks but the tank looked shot. The original tank lasted almost 30 years. I chose aluminum because it could be custom built to maximize capacity. I will install it on 1/4" PVC strips and no foam.

[makade]

i have a 78 18 , new tank waiting to install, what exactly are you using for strips, the material pascoe recommends is impossible to find. i was thinking starboard, but bonding with the 5200 is the issue. i do have tabs to screw the tank down on each corner so the bond between the deck and strips doesn't have to be perfect. any thoughts?

[JohnB]

i have a 78 18 , new tank waiting to install, what exactly are you using for strips, the material pascoe recommends is impossible to find. i was thinking starboard, but bonding with the 5200 is the issue. i do have tabs to screw the tank down on each corner so the bond between the deck and strips doesn't have to be perfect. any thoughts?

You might want to look at this Fuel tank strips or
neopreme

[Keyscruz]

PVC strips are a matrial called Sintra (brand name). It is a rigid expanded PVC. Expanded means it has air inside much like foam. Plastics suppliers and better lumber yards usualy carry it. Comes in 4x8sheets.Neopreme strips are probably cheaper.

[makade]

ok, neoprene-rubber , right? cathodic to aluminum from what i understand, shields depicts their strips with plastic tank on their site. uncertain of compatibility, someone please educate me.
as for the pvc. is it waterproof, i hope. mentioned air -inside like foam, if retains moisture it will defeat purpose, right?
just want to make sure, i don't want my new tank failing in my life time

[Keyscruz]

The PVC does not absorb moisture. It is closed cell smooth surface and very easy to work with. It can be cut routed painted glued or bent (with heat) and it floats. I have built cabinets seats boxes and hatches on my trawler. It is great stuff.

[makade]

sounds good, what to use for adhesive? 5200 i imagine.
any idea on cost of a sheet. thanks