Sylvie Willis
Plastic is a popular choice for boat fuel tanks as it is tough, inert, and won't corrode or be affected by gasoline or diesel. It is also a better choice than aluminium, which can crevice-corrode if water gets trapped between the tank and whatever surface it is sitting on. To install a plastic fuel tank in a boat, you will need to follow a few important steps. Firstly, ensure the tank is placed on a stable surface, such as hull stringers, and avoid placing it directly on the bottom of the hull. Next, use stainless steel pipe fittings for the fuel supply, avoiding the use of steel or galvanized materials. It is also crucial to prevent crevice corrosion by properly securing the tank with straps or other devices. Additionally, consider insulating the tank with high-density neoprene or another non-moisture-absorbing material to prevent corrosion. Finally, follow the manufacturer's instructions for any specific installation requirements, such as the use of adhesives or sealants.
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the tank by gluing plastic strips to the bottom
To prepare the tank, you will need to cut plastic strips to place on the tank's bottom. These strips should be around 1/4" thick, 2" wide, and cut to a length that is exactly 1/4" shorter than the width of the tank. This will prevent the strips from sticking out the sides and collecting water. Haysite or any fiber-reinforced plastic sheet will work for this.
Next, you will need an adhesive to glue the strips to the tank. A strong adhesive like 3M 5200 is recommended. You will need at least two tubes. Apply the adhesive to the bottom of the strips and glue them to the bottom of the tank. Make sure the strips are placed transversely to the length of the tank and spaced about every 12".
It is important to note that the strips should not be fully bedded because the tank expands and contracts as it is filled and emptied. Only apply enough adhesive to create some suction to hold the tank in place. This will ensure that if there is any distortion, the plastic strips will loosen from the deck and not the bottom of the tank.
Once the strips are glued to the bottom of the tank, you can set the tank in place. It will take two people to carefully lower the tank into position. Use wood shims on the inside of the stringers if necessary to guide it into the right position. The weight of the fuel in the tank will help hold it in place.
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Use stainless steel pipe fittings for the fuel supply
When installing a plastic fuel tank in a boat, it is important to use the right materials for the fuel supply fittings to prevent leaks and ensure the safety of the boat. Stainless steel pipe fittings are ideal for this purpose as they are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, a common issue in marine environments. Marine fuel hoses and fittings are critical components in a boat's fuel system, connecting the fuel tank to the engine and providing a steady and safe fuel flow.
It is recommended to use only stainless steel pipe fittings for the fuel supply system and not to mix a variety of metals. Stainless steel fittings are available in various shapes and sizes, including elbows, couplings, tees, crosses, and nipples, allowing for versatile connections. They are designed to withstand the challenges of the marine environment, providing resistance to oil, gasoline, and other chemicals.
The use of stainless steel fittings helps to prevent crevice corrosion, which can occur when water becomes trapped between the tank and its surrounding materials. By eliminating crevices and using stainless steel, you can reduce the risk of corrosion and ensure the longevity of your fuel supply system.
When purchasing stainless steel pipe fittings, look for marine-grade type 316 stainless steel, which offers superior rust, corrosion, and chemical resistance. Regular inspection and maintenance of your fuel lines and fittings are crucial to prevent issues and ensure optimal performance. Check for any signs of wear or damage and replace worn-out fittings promptly to maintain the integrity of your boat's fuel system.
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Prevent crevice corrosion by eliminating water-trapping points
While installing a plastic fuel tank in a boat, it is important to prevent crevice corrosion by eliminating water-trapping points. Here are some detailed steps and instructions to achieve this:
Firstly, understand the cause of crevice corrosion. This type of corrosion occurs when water gets trapped between the tank and another surface, such as the original foam used during installation. It is important to note that corrosion is not caused by the tank simply getting wet, but by the lack of oxygen when water is trapped.
To prevent crevice corrosion, follow these steps:
- Ensure that the tank is not placed too deep in the bilge, where it will be in constant contact with bilge water.
- Use only stainless steel pipe fittings for the fuel supply and avoid mixing different metals. Do not use steel, galvanized, or rubber fittings. Rubber contains carbon, which is cathodic to aluminum and will cause galvanic corrosion.
- Place the tank on a stable surface, such as hull stringers, and avoid placing it directly on the bottom of the hull.
- Use ledger strips made of fir wood to mount the deck. Coat the ledger strips with fiberglass or epoxy to prevent rotting.
- Set the tank on top of plastic strips that are about 1/4" shorter than the width of the tank to avoid sticking out and collecting water. Use fiber-reinforced plastic sheets, such as Haysite.
- Apply a generous amount of 3M 5200 adhesive to the plastic strips, ensuring that the entire surface is coated and there are no gaps or crevices for water to enter.
- Press the plastic strips into position, ensuring they are equally spaced and do not extend beyond the edges of the tank.
- Wipe off any excess adhesive and allow it to set for 24 hours before placing the tank.
- Drill 1/2" drain holes in the deck if necessary to prevent water collection. Coat the drain holes with resin or epoxy to prevent rotting.
By following these steps, you can effectively prevent crevice corrosion by eliminating potential water-trapping points around the plastic fuel tank installation in your boat.
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Insulate the tank with high-density neoprene or plastic
Insulating your boat's fuel tank with high-density neoprene or plastic is an effective way to prevent corrosion. Corrosion occurs when water gets trapped between the tank and the surface it's sitting on, or under the strapping that holds it in place. This can happen with any metal tank, including aluminium and stainless steel.
High-density neoprene or plastic insulation works by preventing water from coming into contact with the metal tank. It's important that the insulating material is completely bonded to the tank to ensure that no water can get in. Polyurethane sealer or adhesive can be used for this purpose.
Neoprene rubber is a common choice for tank installations as it is generally used in place of natural rubber. It is important to note that the carbon content in rubber makes it a poor choice for propping up the tank underneath, as it restricts air circulation. Therefore, it should not be used as a support material under the tank. Instead, it should be used to encase the tank, with the straps going over the neoprene layer.
When using plastic insulation, it is crucial to choose a non-porous variety that will not deteriorate if exposed to fuel and will not cause corrosion. Polyethylene plastic is a popular choice for fuel tanks as it is tough, inert, and resistant to corrosion and permeation by gasoline or diesel. However, it is important to note that some sources claim that fumes can permeate polyethylene, although this is disputed by manufacturers.
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Clean the tank thoroughly with a lint-free cloth and diesel
Before installing a plastic fuel tank in a boat, it is important to clean the tank thoroughly. This is a crucial step to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the fuel tank. Here are the detailed steps for cleaning the tank with a lint-free cloth and diesel:
Firstly, ensure you have a clean and dry lint-free cloth. The cloth should be soft and absorbent, allowing you to wipe down the interior and exterior of the tank without leaving any residue or fibres behind. It is important to avoid using a cloth that may shed fibres or particles, as these can contaminate the fuel tank.
Next, you will need to dampen the lint-free cloth with diesel. Diesel is an effective solvent and cleaner for fuel tanks. It helps to dissolve and remove any debris, residue, or contaminants that may be present in the tank. By dampening the cloth with diesel, you create a safe and effective cleaning solution. Be careful not to oversaturate the cloth, as you do not want excess diesel dripping into the tank.
Wipe down all interior surfaces of the tank with the diesel-dampened cloth. This includes the walls, corners, and any hard-to-reach areas. Take your time with this step, ensuring that you thoroughly clean every inch of the interior. Pay close attention to areas that may have built-up debris or residue, as these areas may require extra attention and scrubbing. It is important to remove any contaminants that could compromise the fuel system or affect the performance of the boat.
After cleaning the interior, move on to the exterior of the tank. Use the same diesel-dampened cloth to wipe down the outside surfaces. This step ensures that the outside of the tank is free from dust, dirt, or any other contaminants that may have accumulated during the installation process or storage.
Finally, once you have thoroughly cleaned the tank, dispose of the cloth and any remaining diesel in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Ensure that you follow local guidelines for disposing of waste diesel and contaminated materials. By properly disposing of these materials, you help to protect the environment and avoid potential hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic is a popular choice for boat fuel tanks as it is tough, corrosion-resistant, and won't be affected by gasoline or diesel. Aluminum is also a good option as it is also corrosion-resistant when exposed to air.
It is recommended to use 3M 5200 adhesive to glue the plastic strips to the bottom of the tank. The tank should be placed on a stable surface, such as hull stringers, and not the bottom of the hull.
First, ensure that the tank is mostly empty. Cut a square hole in the tank and drill screw-sized holes in the panel. Place the panel over the hole and mark each hole. Drill the tank and screw in the screws. Finally, clean the tank thoroughly using a lint-free cloth dampened with diesel.
Insulate the tank with a non-moisture-absorbing material such as high-density neoprene or plastic. Ensure that the insulating material is completely bonded to the tank to prevent water from seeping in and causing corrosion.
