Fuel tank

countshock · #1 06-16-2010, 07:11 PM

I've done tons of searches, but maybe I'm not great at making this here search engine work.
I think the fuel tank on my '79 20'SF has given up the ghost. Tons of fuel in the bilge.
Looks like my summer is shot, since summer is my busy time at work (I'm properties & maintenance at a Yacht Club).
I'm looking for all the advice I can get on fuel tank removal on this boat. (Threads, pics, Dimensions of tank, advice on sources, etc.)
Like I said, I've tried the search function, but there is just too much out there! Ya'll have TOO much info!
Anyway, If anyone has any info they wanna share, it would be greatly appreciated.
It would kill me to miss the derby! (M.V.)

BigLew · #2 06-16-2010, 09:22 PM

Best starting point I've found. Pretty simple too; maybe 5 hrs. plus removal.

http://www.yachtsurvey.com/fueltank.htm

countshock · #3 06-16-2010, 10:49 PM

Thanks!
I've seen that one before, but yeah, that's the sorta info I'm looking for!
I plan on following that advice!
Hoping people have some tips, tricks, pics, etc. to convince me that this is not the end of the world.
Fuel tank dimensions? Suppliers? Anyone have good luck with any particular makers?

CaptMick · #4 06-17-2010, 01:24 PM

sunshine tanks in florida. Great to deal with and fast.

Tip- do everything once and right. Re do all hoses hose clamps etc. Follow the above posted article where you can. Be ready for extra work like what I encountered with a foamed in fill hose. See my post title new world record.

Good luck... it is nice when it is done.

countshock · #5 06-17-2010, 04:49 PM

Thanks guys, keep 'em coming.
Someone at work mentioned that tank maker today, I'll have to check them out.

countshock · #6 06-17-2010, 06:57 PM

So, anyone know the dimensions of the tank? 20SF. '79

toddslures · #7 07-02-2010, 12:33 AM

I had my new tanks made by Tony Perez at Sunrise Marine Tanks in Sarasota, 941-926-8265, www.sunrisemarinetanks.com
I would highly recommend him. He was not the cheapest nor the most expensive. He was very infomative. I also think he is a third generation tank builder to.
I know others here have used him and been happy to.
Call me if you would like to.
He also built my custom water tank. Tony is the go to guy for tanks, in my opinion.

LTsHoney · #8 08-07-2010, 01:26 PM

I replaced my 50 gal fuel tank over a year ago. Removed old tank and foam, cleaned and painted bilge, fabricated a support rack and installed a new 40 gal poly tank. It took a little effort, but I'm totally satisfied with the end result. If you would like more details and pics, you can contact me at [email protected].

countshock · #9 08-13-2010, 09:52 AM

Ok,
New tank is here. I'm still hauling old foam out, what a pain.
The pan that the tank sits on is in pretty good shape. I drilled five test holes in it and four of the five came back with clean wood!

As I'm pulling wet foam out of the hull, forward of the tank, I have come across a hose running through the starboard stringer, down under the fuel tank pan. I have no idea where it goes!

It looks like it may be running to the fishbox, but my fishbox has a thru-hull and drains overboard!

Any Ideas? Did the fishboxes originally drain into the bilge? The boat is a '79 20SF

wtenglish · #10 08-13-2010, 10:54 AM

My '78 had a place where the forward cooler would drain into a sump in front of the stringer on the starboard side. There was a hose that ran from that sump through the stringer to the center drain that runs the length of the hull.