Replacing The Fuel Tank In An Edgewater 185: A Step-By-Step Guide

Replacing a fuel tank in an Edgewater 185 boat may be necessary if you notice a fuel leak. Before replacing the tank, make sure that the leak is not due to a faulty hose or fitting. If you confirm that the tank is leaking, you can either hire a professional or attempt to replace the tank yourself. If you choose to hire a professional, be prepared for potential costs, as one user was quoted $1,000 to replace their fuel tank (not including the cost of the tank itself). If you choose to replace the tank yourself, be aware that you may need to remove the console and/or cut the deck to access the tank. Additionally, you may need to drive to the nearest Edgewater location to have the work done, as they may be the most qualified to perform the replacement.

Removing the console and panel above the tank

To remove the console and panel above the tank, you will need to unbolt the console. First, locate all the bolts securing the console in place. You may need to remove any screws or fasteners holding the console in place as well. Once you have located all the bolts, use the appropriate tool to unbolt them. Be sure to keep track of the bolts and screws removed so you can reassemble the console later. With the console bolts removed, carefully lift and remove the console.

Next, you will need to unbolt the panel above the tank. This will involve locating and removing any bolts, screws, or fasteners holding the panel in place. Again, be sure to keep track of the removed hardware for reassembly. With the hardware removed, carefully lift and remove the panel.

It is important to work slowly and carefully during this process to avoid damaging any surrounding components or the boat's interior. Before beginning any work, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection. Additionally, it is recommended to have a helper assist you with removing and lifting the console and panel, as they can be heavy and awkward to handle.

Once the console and panel are removed, you will have access to the fuel tank and can begin the process of replacing it. Be sure to follow all safety procedures and guidelines when working with fuel systems and consult a professional if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Checking for leaks in the fuel line or fill pipe

Before you replace the fuel tank in your Edgewater 185, it is important to check for leaks in the fuel line or fill pipe. This is because a leaking fuel line or fill pipe could be the reason for the fuel issues you are experiencing, and not the fuel tank itself.

Step 1: Preliminary Inspection

Park your Edgewater 185 outside and raise it up, supporting it on jack stands. Using a flashlight, carefully trace the fuel lines from the tank to the engine. Look out for any signs of a leak, such as spots with an unusual accumulation of dust, road grime, or wet spots. Fuel leaks can also create clean spots where the fuel has washed away all the grime. If you see any dripping from a frame member, follow that member to try and discover the source of the leak. Remember that gravity and wind pressure can affect the path of the fuel leak, so it may be running along multiple members before dripping out.

Step 2: Use a Dye to Help Locate the Leak

There are several products available that are safe to add to your fuel tank to help locate the source of a leak. These products contain a dye that will glow under fluorescent or ultraviolet light. Some brand names include Cliplight Incorporated Multi-Purpose Dye, Gas-Glo 32 by Spectronics Corporation, and AutoPRO Dye by Interdynamics. Check the instructions for the type of light you will need to make the dye visible. Once you have added the dye to your fuel tank, run the engine so that some of the treated fuel is released. Then, use your handheld light to perform a visual inspection of the fuel lines and fill pipe.

Step 3: Use a Leak Detector for Hidden Leaks

If you are unable to locate the source of the leak through a visual inspection, you may need to use a leak detector. This device has a probe that you can insert into areas that are not easily visible. The leak detector will alert you to the presence of compounds within both gasoline and diesel, helping you to zero in on the source of the leak.

Step 4: Take Precautions to Stay Safe

It is important to take precautions to stay safe when checking for fuel leaks. Do not smoke while performing this work, and make sure to park your Edgewater 185 outside to prevent the accumulation of dangerous fumes. Also, be sure to change any clothes that become fuel-soaked immediately, and wash contacted skin with mild soap and plenty of fresh water.

By following these steps, you can thoroughly check for leaks in the fuel line or fill pipe of your Edgewater 185 before replacing the fuel tank. Remember to take the necessary safety precautions and use the appropriate tools and products to help locate the source of any leaks.

Getting quotes for the work

To get a quote for the work, you will need to contact a boat repair specialist or a boat mechanic. You can find these professionals by searching online directories, asking for recommendations from fellow boat owners, or contacting your local marina or boatyard.

When requesting a quote, it is essential to provide as much detailed information as possible about the issue and your boat. In this case, you can mention the make and model of your boat (Edgewater 185), the suspected problem (fuel tank leak), and any relevant observations or symptoms (e.g., fuel odour in the bilge, fuel in the bilge after pulling the plug).

Additionally, you may want to inquire about the specific process and materials required to replace the fuel tank. This can include asking about the labour time involved, the cost of parts and materials, and whether any custom fabrication is necessary. It is also worth asking about the mechanic's experience with Edgewater boats or similar fuel tank replacement projects.

Before accepting a quote, be sure to review the scope of work, estimated costs, and any warranties or guarantees provided. It is always a good idea to get multiple quotes to compare prices and services offered. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best, as you want to ensure the work is done correctly and safely.

Finally, don't hesitate to ask questions and clarify any concerns you may have. A reputable boat repair specialist or mechanic should be able to address your queries and provide you with a detailed and transparent quote for the fuel tank replacement work.

Removing the T-top and console to access bolts

To replace the fuel tank in an Edgewater 185, you will need to first remove the T-top and console to access the bolts. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Removing the T-top:

• Start by gathering the necessary tools and materials, such as a wrench or screwdriver.
• Locate the bolts or screws that hold the T-top in place. These are typically found at the base of the T-top frame.
• Using your wrench or screwdriver, loosen and remove the bolts or screws.
• Carefully lift and remove the T-top frame from the boat. You may need an extra pair of hands for this step as the T-top can be heavy.
• Set the T-top aside in a safe place, being careful not to damage the boat or the frame.

Removing the console:

• Identify the wiring, steering, and control cables connected to the console.
• You can choose to disconnect these at the console or at the motor, whichever is more accessible.
• Loosen and detach any bolts or screws securing the console in place.
• Gently lift and remove the console, being mindful of any connected wires or cables.
• Place the console in a safe area, ensuring it is stable and won't tip over.

With the T-top and console removed, you should now have better access to the bolts and other components required to replace the fuel tank. Remember to keep your workspace organised and take note of which bolts and screws you remove to make reassembly easier.

Additionally, it is important to consult a professional or a certified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps or procedures.

Contacting the manufacturer for advice

If you are unsure about how to replace the fuel tank in your Edgewater 185, it is always best to contact the manufacturer for advice. EdgeWater Power Boats can be contacted via phone, email, or post.

Contacting EdgeWater Power Boats

The Customer Service Manager at EdgeWater is Christine Washington. Her contact details are:

• Phone: 386-426-5457 x4178
• Email: Christine@ewboats.com

Alternatively, you can write to EdgeWater at the following address:

EdgeWater Power Boats

13160 N Cleveland Ave

North Fort Myers, FL 33903

Advice from the Manufacturer

When you contact EdgeWater, they may advise you to bring your boat to their location in Tampa, Florida, where they can replace the fuel tank for a nominal hourly fee. This is what they offered to one owner of an EdgeWater 175.

Before you contact EdgeWater, it may be worth investigating whether the problem is definitely a leaking fuel tank. One owner of an EdgeWater 175 was advised to check for a leaking fuel line or a leak in the fill pipe. Another owner of an EdgeWater 185 was advised to put gas in to maybe 1/4 tank, disconnect the supply line, put a bucket under the garboard drain, and see if gas comes out.

Frequently asked questions