The tank was taken offline some years ago by the previous owner following a bad bout of 'diesel bug' (an algae). He used a plastic tank mounted amidships. I elected to have an inspection port cut into the tank and to have it steam cleaned. I did so to give myself a full compliment of fuel onboard.
Once steam cleaned, the tank began to leak (!). It amounted to about 500mL to 1L per 24hrs, but however little, the stink of diesel permeated the cabin, and made a mess of the bilge.
I began by draining the tank entirely (every drop) with a siphon pump through the inspection port. I then disconnected the filler, vent, return and supply, as well as the wiring to the gauge.
I then removed the various screws holding the trim that secures the tank from above. This is accessed from the cabin, lifting the base panel that sits above the tank.
Once the trim pieces were removed, the tank slides aft very easily. I then rotated the aft end of the tank upward, so that the top of the tank faced outboard. Lifting through the starboard cockpit locker, rotating forward at the last minute...and it was out...without removing the teak trim (though gouging it slightly).
The source of the corrosion that may have led to the leak (ongoing) is apparent looking back into the space occupied by the tank. Years of dirt, grime, and various screws, washers and the like were found blocking the drain hole at the forward port corner. The tank was sitting in this brew of moisture, metal bits and dirt.
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| The tank was sitting in a damp and dirty spot...the wires dropped down during removal |
Details of the repair and re installation to follow.
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