1988 Osprey 170 Fuel Tank Replacement

[UVAcavsLewis]

Hi All,

I plan to replace the OEM fuel tank on my 1988 Osprey 170 in a few weeks.

I called up Phil yesterday at Alloy Metal Works and he is working on the tank fab...4 week lead time.

Before I go on this adventure, any tips or insight that can be shared to make this a successful rebuild?

Any comments would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks again,
Nic

[RickK]

You might want to change the fill hose to the hull side gunwale top. It's a slightly difficult job and we have a lot of examples of doing this.  Change the vent hose same time.  Also you should change the hose from the tank to the engine. All this will be apparent as you get into this.  You might want to pull the tank and start on the hoses now though, while you're waiting for the tank.

[UVAcavsLewis]

Thanks Rick, hoping to get started today to get an understanding of the condition.

Any suggestions or tips on how to secure the new tank?

[RickK]

I would see how the old one was secured and see if you can copy that, minus any rubber or anything that can trap water against the tank.

[UVAcavsLewis]

Thanks Rick, I opened it up yesterday, see the pictures below, do you know what the smaller clear line is that is going parallel to the larger fill hose?

[RickK]

 
Maybe run that by Phil, pics too, and see if he's seen that or even made it like that.

[UVAcavsLewis]

Thanks Rick, will do!

[Capt. Bob]

After passing through the coffin/bulkhead, where does the other end go?
Can you find it?

That's definitely "former owner" installed. Can't recall ever seeing that on this Forum.

[RickK]

Maybe it went to a gas trolling motor?

[UVAcavsLewis]

After passing through the coffin/bulkhead, where does the other end go?
Can you find it?

That's definitely "former owner" installed. Can't recall ever seeing that on this Forum.

The other end terminated at the fill hose connection on the gunwale.

[UVAcavsLewis]

I have successfully removed the old fuel tank and the new tank is in place, engine cranked up and everything seems to be in good order.

One issue was found, my fuel gauge is not working (sits on empty)...my hunch is I need a new gauge, does anyone know the ohmage required for a new gauge? 0-90 ohms? 30-240?

Thanks,

[Capt. Bob]

One issue was found, my fuel gauge is not working (sits on empty)...my hunch is I need a new gauge, does anyone know the ohmage required for a new gauge? 0-90 ohms? 30-240?

OK,
First, is it safe to assume you installed a new sensor in the new tank? Industry standard is 30-240 ohms. If not, that is more than likely your problem.
Second, if you have then a new gauge is needed and they work on that 30-240 ohm standard (here in the USA anyway).

[Riverrunner23]

I was wondering if anyone has installed a Moeller permanent plastic tank under the console like they did in the early 1970’s 170. Where does the battery go? Any input is appreciated! Thanks

[UVAcavsLewis]

One issue was found, my fuel gauge is not working (sits on empty)...my hunch is I need a new gauge, does anyone know the ohmage required for a new gauge? 0-90 ohms? 30-240?

OK,
First, is it safe to assume you installed a new sensor in the new tank? Industry standard is 30-240 ohms. If not, that is more than likely your problem.
Second, if you have then a new gauge is needed and they work on that 30-240 ohm standard (here in the USA anyway).

I replaced the fuel gauge, and wiring and all is good, 30-240 was correct thanks!

[RickK]

Capt. Bob is DA MAN and has been for many years