Aluminum gas tank 88’ 3807

[VicB]

1988, 3807. Starboard fuel tank was replace in 2012, way before I bought it. Port fuel tank (both aluminum by the way) is original. I wonder if one gave up the ghost, why not replace them both. Now, I am waiting on that other shoe to drop. It appears fine, of course I can’t see the bottom where corrosion would occur. What would you guys do? Don’t fix it, if it’s not broken? Go ahead and drain it an pull it? By the way, our marina is at a state park. No mechanics and we have to travel through a lock then about 20 miles to a service marina. Any work done, will have to be done by myself and first mate. Thanks in advance, Vic

[bud37]

That is a tough one ......I guess things like this really depend on your stress tolerance and your ability to safely do the work. Do you know the details of how and what procedure they followed with the previous tank ?

If it was my boat I would have done both tanks when the one went, but clearly that does not help you now.I sympathize with your position, it would be stressful not knowing when the other hammer will/may drop, especially gasoline. But a reminder, a lot a care would be required in safely removing the tank and it's contents.

Good luck with it , I am sure there will be many comments on this for you to consider.

[km1125]

Is there any other evidence that the starboard side was getting wet somehow that led to the tank failure? Anything on the stringers or bulkheads or other surrounding stuff that might show that something was going on over there that might not apply to the port side?

[Viper]

A tough call for sure. I think I would leave it unless I found evidence a leak was immanent. It may not make it through the next season or may last another 30 years, it's hard to say without further assessment but I say deal with it when that time comes. You could try getting the inside of the tank inspected but that will only reveal internal issues, not anything that's going on externally. Ideally it should have been replaced at the same time as the other side to be safe but you're past that point, and honestly, few owners would go for that additional expense anyway despite recommendations.

If you ever do get on board and smell a lot of fuel, be prepared to pump out the tank as soon as possible, and make arrangements to get to a shop, even if you have to go on one engine or get towed with blowers running, hatches open, etc.

Go out, enjoy the boat, and deal with it later if it happens at all, unless you find evidence that it should be done now.

Of course if you're worried and feel you should be proactive....

[VicB]

Great ideas from all of you. It’s one of those things that’s in the back of my mind, but shows no signs externally of any issues. Wife says I just look for things to do instead of relaxing. We just got through fabricating a new upper helm canopy. I had suggested we start on the eisenglass. She just gave me “the look” and said we need to just get ready for spring and use it.

[Viper]

Better do what the Admiral says!