Fuel tank intallation Question 1

[John F.]

OK--the tank is out, and I've cleaned up the old foam. I'm debating how many "while I have the decks up" I want to tackle, and may just do what's needed for the tank install.

First question-- In the bottom of the bilge are two half-round fiberglass tubes running fore and aft that channel the bilge water out. They have a little "shelf" between them. I'm guessing I should get these out, and glass in a new shelf for the tank to give the tank something else to rest on and to keep bilge water off the bottom of the tank. Is that right?

Thanks.

[CaptPatrick]

John,

Most of the fiberglass water raceways under the tank that I've seen are pretty flimsey and don't do much to keep water out of the tanks compartment.

I use 2" schedule 40 PVC pipe, cut into two halves, and glass it in. Fill in the space between them with strips of 3/4" insulation foam to rise a bit above the new raceways.

Click on the image for the rest of tankage page:

[ianupton]

Capt'n Patrick,

Are you compiling the work your doing on this new Hancock resto like you did with Buddy Boy?

I'm sure I speak for most when I say I would love to see the documentation.

Much Thanks!

Ian.

[Mack]

I have a solid wood shelf (can't recall if it is teak or mahogony) that fits the contour of tunnels and is completely glassed in. This allows residual bilge water to continue to flow between the low (middle/cabin) point and aft section. The tank sits on feet that sit on the shelf, allowing air flow and (hopefully) no moisture. I also have two 1/2" holes through the rear tank bulkhead at shelf level to release any water from the tank compartment in the event there is any meaningful accumulation.

Feel free to come over and take a look. I decided not to haul it this winter, however I moved it to a slip so she bow to the weather!

[CaptPatrick]

Capt'n Patrick,

Are you compiling the work your doing on this new Hancock resto like you did with Buddy Boy?

I'm sure I speak for most when I say I would love to see the documentation.

Much Thanks!

Ian.

Yup... I let some of it dribble out here and there, but not quite ready to do a "Before 'n After" presentation yet. There's almost 200 megs of images so far. The ugly duckling stage is a long one when you're working all by your lonesome...

[ianupton]

Thanks Capt'n!

Keep teasing us a bit now and then:)

Ian.

[Bob H.]

Thanks for posting those pictures Capt. Pat, exactly where I am at and you answered a hundred questions without having to say a word. My engines will be in this month and Ill post some shots when done.

[CaptPatrick]

Bob,

The stock B31 tanks have that "keel" ridge down the center line, so your foam panels, (if you go that way), will need to be fitted so that tank won't rest directly on the water races, but still pocket in between them. I used 3/4" pink stryne insulation foam on this boat. Closed cell and a bit more compressive strength than the urethane like stuff.

Glad this thread coincided with your current project.

Br,

Patrick

[John F.]

Capt. Pat-

Thanks.

Crae-

When I'm ready, I'll come over. I still have to figure out what "while I'm in there" stuff I have to do, and what can wait.

John