Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: would you buy a used aluminum fuel tank?
Posted by budana on 03/16/10 - 9:47 PM
#1
on a tight budget,but need to replace fiberglass Pate tank.found a used aluminum 18 gal with electric sending unit.guy is scrapping a boat and is wanting to sell the tank.what should i check if the price is right on the tank.pic's of tank look good.any help would be appriciated. thanks' Bud.
Posted by Bake on 03/17/10 - 3:55 AM
#2
I would think that if it is not pitted on the outside your ok. I have seen a couple of belly tanks fail, but the ones I have seen fail from the outside in due to exposure to salt water. If I would want to try to get a light and a mirror down in it if possible before laying the money down.
Posted by DWinter on 03/17/10 - 4:47 AM
#3
Just pressure test it using compressed air and some detergent to check for air bubbles. After that I say go for it. I would however make sue it's reasonably clean.
Posted by whalerman on 03/17/10 - 8:40 AM
#4
Yes, look at the interior as best as possible. Be very careful with air pressure. Don't go too much , 5 lbs. at most!! Spray it down with soapy water as Duane said an if checks ok, go for it.
Posted by mattgeiger on 03/17/10 - 12:14 PM
#5
Follow the advice above.
My old Mirax tanks have developed leaks at the fittings on warmer days (one at the pickup, the other at the threaded plug where a vent might have gone. These fittings are 25 years old and the galvanic corrosion between brass and aluminum has taken it's toll.
Posted by budana on 03/17/10 - 9:34 PM
#6
Bake wrote:
I would think that if it is not pitted on the outside your ok. I have seen a couple of belly tanks fail, but the ones I have seen fail from the outside in due to exposure to salt water. If I would want to try to get a light and a mirror down in it if possible before laying the money down.
i have only been able to see online pic's of tank,looks to have not sure if they are pits or little tiny mounds i'll see if i can post a pic .guy wants $100 for it.
Posted by Bake on 03/18/10 - 1:06 AM
#7
If it is about saving money right now would the 12 gallon plastic be large enough for you? looking on line west has them new for $53.00
Posted by budana on 03/18/10 - 8:57 PM
#8
thanks bake,i look at a couple places ,but they want over $100 for a 12 gal which i thought was kinda high.
Posted by Bake on 03/19/10 - 4:12 AM
#9
I just jumped on west marine web site to see what you could pick one up for. would go plastic and in 50 years when it fails you should be able to get a replacement for your pate.
Posted by budana on 03/21/10 - 11:00 AM
#10
went to academy found tank 12 gal for $49.97 moeller red ,the West marine ad for the white Moeller said e-10 complient but red ones didn't .am i reading more into to this than necessary?