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michaelcttr
08-03-2010, 04:16 PM
Can anyone give me tips on fuel tank replacement 1972 18' 2+3?

gcarter
08-03-2010, 04:34 PM
Remove the deck.
Dig the foamed in tank out of the hull.
Early 18's used a 25 gallon tank, sometime in that era, they switched to a 41 gallon tank. It's all pretty easy to do, not particularly quick, but easy.
The tanks are available from at least a couple of companies and cost around $500-600.00, I think.
The early boats w/the 25 gallon tanks can be modified to accept the much better 41 gallon tanks.
Take a look at this;

http://www.donzi.net/forums/showthread.php?t=49388

Tidbart
08-03-2010, 06:31 PM
And if you go with 41 gallon, have I got a sender for you!:yes:


PS. Welcome aboard.

Kirbyvv
08-04-2010, 07:55 AM
Do a search for George Carters thread on tank replacements. I used it as my bible, right down to the type of foam, etc. Thanks again George. I replaced mine with a stock 25 gallon tank from Florida Marine Tanks (FMT), $350 + $45 in shipping. They told me it would be about a 4 week delivery time, but mine came in 3 weeks.

CAPTBEACH
08-04-2010, 09:41 AM
And whatever method you use to remove and install the one rule to observe is protect that metal...

Scotchguard the entire surface of the tank and remove EVERY BIT OF SHINE on that aluminum...if it comes painted remove the paint and do it again, your prep is not suspect...

Once Scotchguarded and the shine is gone assemble your materials, tape to tape off fills and vents and sending unit...a good two part epoxy primer and coal tar epoxy...

Clean the tank surfaces with a mild soap like Dawn, dry...

Wipe down with Acetone to remove any traces of oil or contaminants...

Prime with 2-3 coats of the Epoxy Primer...I highly recommend Interlux 2000/2000E (http://www.yachtpaint.com/usa/diy/products/primers/interprotect-2000voc.aspx) or Interlux Primocon (http://www.yachtpaint.com/usa/diy/products/primers/primocon.aspx) put several coats on...allow to dry completely

Cover with coal tar epoxy (http://www.epoxysystems.com/216.htm)

Then reinstall your tank...it should last 30-40 years like this...

michaelcttr
08-09-2010, 01:47 PM
Thanks to all for help on tank replacement issue. I'll probably be back with more questions this winter when I get down to it. Wish an amateur luck.

To administration- GREAT SITE

Madcow
08-09-2010, 08:16 PM
I've found the best way to remove a tank is go in there wit a sawsall, and a long blade, just wack away at the foam for 5 to 10 minuets. This will efectivly break most of it up so then you just have to lift up the tank. Have fun.