84 Capri Leaky Fuel tank-gctid809927

[PrestigeWorldwide]

Took the boat out yesterday and immediately noticed a strong gas odor just before backing down the boat ramp. Went to put the plug in and had fuel dripping from the plug hole. Now, I've done my research and realize that getting a replacement and cutting the floors up probably outweigh the value of the boat.

I'm not looking to give up on boating this season and buying another boat really isn't a viable option right now.

I would like to abandon the old tank (after siphoning it dry) and add another tank maybe where the under seat cooler is located. Now, I know it will have to be a smaller tank, and that is something I can live with to keep me on the water.

Does this sound like something that can be safely done? (Big emphasis on safety here). I'm reallly not ready to give up boating this summer, and do not have the coin for a costly tank replacement.

[Vic_Stewart]

Plug hole????

[PrestigeWorldwide]

"Vic Stewart" post=809928 wrote:
Plug hole????

That would require cutting the floor up, and re-decking and fuberglassing, both of which I have absolutely no experience with.

[builderdude]

"Vic Stewart" post=809928 wrote:
Plug hole????

I think Vic was asking what "plug hole" meant. I assumed you were referring to the garboard drain at the lower rear of the transom. Sure you can run it from an external marine aproved fuel tank but you will need to clean all fuel from the current leaking tank and even more important is to make sure the presence of fuel vapor no longer exists anywhere in the boat. Gasoline fuel vapor is highly explosive, it's heavier than air and can settle low down in the bilge and stay there, Not good!! Perhaps look into having this cleaning done by someone certified to clean fuel tanks.

[PrestigeWorldwide]

"builderdude" post=809933 wrote:

"Vic Stewart" post=809928 wrote:
Plug hole????

I think Vic was asking what "plug hole" meant. I assumed you were referring to the garboard drain at the lower rear of the transom. Sure you can run it from an external marine aproved fuel tank but you will need to clean all fuel from the current leaking tank and even more important is to make sure the presence of fuel vapor no longer exists anywhere in the boat. Gasoline fuel vapor is highly explosive, it's heavier than air and can settle low down in the bilge and stay there, Not good!! Perhaps look into having this cleaning done by someone certified to clean fuel tanks.

I apologize for my boat term illiteracy. Still on a learning curve! Yes I would definitely have someone certified do the cleaning, as safety on the water is always my number one concern.

Would I be able to install any marine approved tank and still work correctly with the motor/fuel pump? I have been in contact with a local shop about the option of adding a separate tank and abandoning the old one, but I always like hearing other opinions and trying to educate myself a little more.