Gas tank nightmare about to begin? ahhh

[powersportcomposites]

So after seeing all the hassle others on here have with gas tanks in the 170's I was curious. I just bought this boat two weeks ago, and to my knowledge, the tank is kosher. Holds a full tank of gas, at least I think. I havent noticed any gas in the bilge at all....which is where I would assume the gas ends up when leaking out of the tank. However.....the boat does need a gas sender and gauge, and so today I removed the 4 inspection hatch over the tank to take a peek....and I smelled gas. Ahhhh! I'm going to paint the boat soon and was going to pull the console out to paint it, I guess I should pull the gas tank cover too and poke around a bit. I REALLY hope I don't have to replace it.
Thoughts?

[Blue Agave]

Once you get the console out, open the fuel cell door and take a look. Then make a decision.  How old is boat?

[powersportcomposites]

That's the plan. If I can smell fuel something must be wrong, but I'm thinking it might be minor. I'm considering a repair with epoxy and fiberglass if a repair is needed.

[wingtime]

Don't freak out just yet.  You could just have old fuel lines that become soft, gummy and seep gas when ethanol fuel is used.  so you may just have to replace your fuel lines, vent lines and possibly your fill hose...  Look for corrosion pits in the tank under the retaining straps and where ever anything touches the tank.

[powersportcomposites]

Thanks Wing ill definitely check that out