Fuel tank replacement

yankee · #1 05-22-2008, 01:04 PM

I spend a lot of time lurking this and other sites seeing and learning how others are restoring their Seacrafts in preparation for the day I get my 23’ inboard dream boat. Fuel cell replacement seems to be very common, and I found an interesting article on how to mount a tank correctly. One common mistake pointed out is the use of rubber pads. The carbon in the rubber acts as a cathode to the aluminum tank inducing galvanic corrosion.

I think this link may be of interest for anyone replacing a fuel cell or inspecting one.

fuel tank replacement

Jay

Capt Chuck · #2 05-22-2008, 01:35 PM

Quote:

The carbon in the rubber acts as a catholic

Yo Yankee, thanks for the link but I think you mean "Cathode"

The other requires Bread & Wine to prevent corrosion, just ask Fr Frank [img]/forum/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]

JohnB · #3 05-22-2008, 04:28 PM

Your right, don't use rubber, use closed cell neoprene which is made by Shields Rubber, and is made with that purpose in mind. Don't use foam, although it will probably last 15-20 years.

Islandtrader · #4 05-23-2008, 08:36 AM

Quote:

use closed cell neoprene which is made by Shields Rubber, and is made with that purpose in mind.

Do you have a where to buy source?

seabob4 · #5 05-23-2008, 04:33 PM

1/4" thick, 2" wide Closed-cell Neoprene "Tank Rubber". How much do you need? The proper install is:

(2) strips lengthwise, unbroken, from the top of the forward side to the top of the aft side, about 6" either side of the keel area.

(2) strips on the bottom if it is flat.

This meets NMMA and ABYC standards. However much you need, $.95 per foot, shipping included.

I work for Pro-Line. It's what we use for our tank installs. Including the 442 gallon on our 35 Express.

JohnB · #6 05-23-2008, 04:44 PM

That's the stuff, I think it comes from Shields rubber in Tampa, sounds like you have a hookup for it.
I paid about a buck a foot for mine, than got hit with 12 bucks shipping from port supply.

Islandtrader · #7 05-24-2008, 08:28 AM

Bob,

Keep posting, one day and I already forgot to ask you

I have a supplier file that I keep for reference on when I need the product.

From now on I'll ask Bob

seabob4 · #8 05-24-2008, 03:32 PM

Island Trader,
We get our Tank Tape from an outfit called CGR, I believe out of North Carolina. They make all kinds of sealing and gasketing material. Good company and I have contacts there.