Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Under Seat Gas Tank 13 Sport
Posted by 71sourpuss on 04/27/13 - 6:11 PM
#1
I have a 1971 13 Sport and I'm trying to find a gas tank that will fit under the rear seat. It needs to be at least nine gallons, if not twelve, as my 40hp Mariner is incredibly thirsty. I have a twelve gallon behind the seat now, but I do a lot of trolling for bluefish/Spanish Mac, and would like to free up space behind the seat and maybe improve weight distribution. Does anyone know what company makes a tank that would fit? Thanks!
Edited by Joe Kriz on 04/27/13 - 6:54 PM
Posted by jfortson on 04/27/13 - 6:47 PM
#2
Moeller Marine makes a lot of different sizes. Google Moeller Marine and you can get dimensions and capacity. If you have not already done so, you can pick up several extra inches of clearance for a gas tank, and IMHO a more comfortable seating by moving the rear thwart seat to the top of the side boards or "seat clamps" rather than underneath.
Posted by 71sourpuss on 04/28/13 - 6:12 AM
#3
Thanks! The Moeller 14 gallon looks like it should fit nicely. Plus I'll have an extra two gallons on board.
Posted by jfortson on 04/28/13 - 8:59 AM
#4
West Marine should have it or can have it shipped to a store at no shipping charge. West is usually a little high, but will usually price match.
Posted by contender250 on 04/28/13 - 7:02 PM
#5
The best thing to do is have a custom alum tank (out of .125) built to fit under the forward seat. I rebuilt my son's 11 whaler and built a custom tank that fit under the forward seat and holds 10 gallons, If I would have made the tank another inch taller or wider it would held closer to 14 gallons. I made a goose neck and the fill is on top of the center console along with the vent (hides under the console) This is also nice because it gets a little more weight forward. I also think the alum tank is nicer/safer and will last longer than a plastic one, cost are going to be about the same, just find a good welder and think before you order the tank, best to take the boat to him so he can see and let him do the measurements...take care
Posted by jflots on 04/29/13 - 7:47 AM
#6
contender250 wrote:
The best thing to do is have a custom alum tank (out of .125) built to fit under the forward seat. I rebuilt my son's 11 whaler and built a custom tank that fit under the forward seat and holds 10 gallons, If I would have made the tank another inch taller or wider it would held closer to 14 gallons. I made a goose neck and the fill is on top of the center console along with the vent (hides under the console) This is also nice because it gets a little more weight forward. I also think the alum tank is nicer/safer and will last longer than a plastic one, cost are going to be about the same, just find a good welder and think before you order the tank, best to take the boat to him so he can see and let him do the measurements...take care
I agree. I had an aluminum tank for our previous 13. It was sized to fit under the forward seat and held 8.3 gallons but could have easily been larger. Allong with getting the weight forward it also cleans up the back of the boat. I have a drawing and photos of the tank if you're interested.
Posted by Binkie on 04/29/13 - 9:20 AM
#7
What most everyone does in your situation is to just remove the mahogany seat and screw it to the top of the clamp. It will give you 4 inches more height and be more comfortable. Simple fix.
rich
Posted by 71sourpuss on 04/29/13 - 12:49 PM
#8
I like the idea of having the tank under the front seat. I know an awesome welder who can make me one once I get the funding for a custom tank.
Posted by contender250 on 04/29/13 - 3:12 PM
#9
sour, you will be surprised the cost is not that much difference between an alum and a new plastic one (if you equal the gallon size) and the alum would make and be a much nicer tank.
Bink moving the wood to the top of the rail is an easy fix, but I would remove the sides and cut them deeper/higher in the same place, makes for a cleaner look .