Fuel tank removal

[440Interceptor]

I have removed the n/s tank for cleaning and painting but the offside one, with filler hose, is another story. Is there an easy way to do this or am I cutting through sealant etc and chopping through hoses to get it out?

I very intelligently managed to break off the lower nozzle on this tank that goes to the swirl pot when I took the body off, so that needs reattaching, otherwise I would probably leave them both in situ, clean, paint (POR15)and replace the straps with stainless or ally.

[440Interceptor]

Thanks Ian. Those hoses from the filler neck are so hard I thought they might be metal... I suppose I've answered my own question then haven't I? Does anyone know if replacements are available?

[440Interceptor]

Woo hoo! Both tanks out now. They both look pretty good although one has a patch of surface rust on top of it, but nothing that will be a problem. Will definitely need some 2" fuel hose now!

Re straps, I agree, making up some out of stainless shouldn't be too hard using the old ones as a template. Onward!

Edited by 440Interceptor on Tuesday 17th March 12:59

[440Interceptor]

Should I sandblast the fuel tanks or is the steel too thin?

[440Interceptor]

I have purchased a fuel tank repair kit from the makers of POR15 for peace of mind in the future. I am also having some stainless tank straps made up. Will then give the outside the marine clean/metal ready/POR15 treatment and they'll be better than new!

[440Interceptor]

Thanks Ziga, product says its tested with Ethanol but there are mixed reports of how well it works. Given I had no problems with leaks in the past I might let sleeping dogs do what they do best. Let you know what I decide. Cheers.

[440Interceptor]

Thanks Ian, my repairer says they're galvo.

[440Interceptor]

I ended up chickening out and taking the kit back and swapping it for more paint and paint prep. I will give them a good swill out with POR15 Marine Clean and then paint them.