20 gal fuel tank side mounted needs cleaned

M

Marine5

New member
Anyone ever removed side mounted 20gal fuel tanks. I have a new engine on a well maintained 77’ DC step lift v20 hull. Right now it’s on a portable tank. I want to restore it to the original aluminum tanks for greater range.
How do I get them out to clean.
 

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Welcome to the forum! Nice looking boat. What's the history -- did you switch from the side tanks to a portable, and if so, was it because you knew that they were contaminated?

My only experience is with belly tanks and specifically a leaking one that had to be replaced. Hopefully someone here will step up soon with more side tank knowledge.
 
Pipe_Dream said:
Welcome to the forum! Nice looking boat. What's the history -- did you switch from the side tanks to a portable, and if so, was it because you knew that they were contaminated?

My only experience is with belly tanks and specifically a leaking one that had to be replaced. Hopefully someone here will step up soon with more side tank knowledge.
Click to expand...
The previous owner I believe was had the boat for 30+ years or so.
Many great memories fishing and scalloping he gave me a ton of gear with it fluids, tools, outriggers, etc. He thinks there’s a lot of condensation and nastiness in the two side tanks. Apparently the motor is picking something up from them when it tries to draw on them.
But runs fine on an auxiliary portable tank.
 
Hey Marine, I used to have that setup, but not very long. I think there's a cover over them. Should be able to remove the cover and see how they are tied down, probably just a couple of tabs w/ bolts. Get those out, disconnect fuel lines and they "should" come right out. But don't quote me on it. Let us know how it goes. Very nice looking rig especially for the age. Welcome to the site!
 
Wow, that V looks great. It was well taken care of. Can’t comment on saddle tanks, but I would think easier to get to than a belly tank.

You mentioned scalloping, so I’m guessing Florida gulf coast? I’m in the north zone, our season doesn’t open till Aug 16.
 
Yep, Blue is correct. I have a 1977 with saddle tanks. Bought it in 06 and unscrewed the bottom tabs, unhooked the sender wire and fuel line and vent hose. pulled them out. Theres a inspection cover it the top.
 
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