Getting tank out of '73 22-2

[compcrasher86]

Anybody know how I can get my stock tank out of my '73 22-2. I got the deck panel off (extremely heavy!), and the retaining brackets are unbolted, but it doesnt budge an inch. The tank is foamed in so I imagine this just makes my work tougher. Whats the easiest technique to get it out because the bottom really needs to be inspected?

[slippery73]

You need to scrape foam from around sides of tank to help loosen. Then I removed the fuel gauge and hooked a ratchet strap inside the hole and cranked it up. It took quite a bit to break it free, wasn't concerned with damaging it as I was having a new one made.

[compcrasher86]

I guess thats how its done. Seeing as I am not ready to possibly break my tank, I imagine I will have to fine an alternate method. Also the foam scraping does not sound like fun so maybe I'll procrastinate a bit more with my big tank and just keep using my portable tanks. Thnks

[slippery73]

See the flex on the 4x4. It took quite a bit to get it pulled. I used a 2"wide x  1/4" thick piece of flat bar steel to hammer in between the tank and the stringer to dig out the foam. You will have to do something similar, flat piece of metal etc.

[Marcq]

Was wondering, the kind of foam that's there, would it melt the foam pouring lacquer thinner on it ?

Marc..

[compcrasher86]

Of course, another messy job... sigh

where did you anchor that ratchet strap to.

I have one of those straps holding my boat down to the trailer in the back. I could borrow it for this little task I bet.

As for the foam, it is this weird white/brown stuff that almost looks like packing foam sprayed in there.