Fuel Tanks

[csvencer]

Now I have read through a good number of tank replacement threads and think I have a handle on the process, but I am not sure I even need to replace mine yet... I haven't had any specific trouble with my gas, I just think I am unlucky. I have blown 2 engines in just over 6 months. First was a Johnrude that ran out of oil (bad oil tank) and now a 02 Yamaha that had two cylinders run lean, looks like a carb issue as they shared one. So either I am unlucky or I have had two hidden gas issues kill two outboards...not sure. Anyway, besides the engines, I never have had any trouble with the gas. No water in the yamaha water seperator, no excess junk in the filters, always run stabil and ring free. Well I decided to take a look at the tank, got nothing else to do since I am down hard for the winter it looks like, and popped off the deck hatch.

MAN, is that thing foamed in there good!!! She isn't looking like she wants out of there anytime soon, without some serious digging. So before I decide to wrestle it out I am draining the tank and taking a peak inside. Two questions for you guys...
1. Is there any recommended way to clean the tank without pulling it? I have seen a couple tank cleaning solutions that you can just pour in and slosh around...anyone familar?

2. Once cleaned up a bit, what about pressure testing the tank to see if there are any holes rather than pulling it out? Anyone ever try that?

Well any tips would be great. Sorry for the long post...

Thanks.

-Svence

 

[phatdaddy]

i think i would pressure test first, no sense cleaning a tank with a hole in it.....

 

[csvencer]

Good point. Now I just need to figure out a way to rig up a pressure gauge.

-Svence

 

[tsubaki]

Careful!
From the factory they are normally tested to 3 to 5psi.