FUEL TANK 1978 26-6

[Anonymous]

I am looking at a 1978 24-6. The power is junk but the boat is in very good shape for the year. What is the construction of the fuel tanks in these boats of this vintage Aluminum or glass?  I assume alum. and what gauge? Strangly there were no inpection hatches in the cockpit floor. There was a small blank hatch on centerline, but not with a removable cover. It was in the middle of a large panel in the deck that is bedded and screwed down, but of course I did not go that route to inspect the tank.

Tanks of this age make me nervous. Where is the access to the tank fittings?? I would certainly hope one does not need to pull the deck up to get at them

BB

[Mad Dog]

BB,

Aluminum is the material of the day, and still is.  In a 1978 model you really need to remove the large hatch panel and do a thorough inspection.  If any moisture has built up in the compartment there is a good chance the tank has crevace corrosion (pitted patches caused by electroysis).  Even if the tank is in good shape I would remove it, clean it and coat it with epoxy paint (others swear by coal tar paints).  If you check out my photo album below you will find the crevace corrosion on the old tank and see how the new one is coated.

You are spending good money on a good boat and putting your safety in it's construction and components.  Pull the hatch and check the tank.  Peace of mind is priceless.

MD  

[Anonymous]

thanks

[Wayne'sWorld]

BB

I'm going to echo what Mad Dog is saying as a matter of experience.  It is WELL worth the effort to pull that tank cover and inspect.  If the tank is no good, you could be adding an immediate $800+ dollars to the purchase price and down time on the water cause we all know these boats don't run on air
I glossed over this step because the previous owner told me the tank was only six years old, which was the truth.  What I didn't know was that the tank was blocked in with a 2 x 4 and was encrusted with salt.  Pull the tank, inspect well, coat with your choice of toppings (there's plenty 'nuff good debate on the site for you to draw your own conclusion on what to use) make sure fittings and fuel lines/vent lines are in good condition.  Then enjoy the ride! :twisted: