Diesel Tank has a Leak

[PDA1]

I've got a Catalina 30 MkIII. The Diesel tank has a very tiny drip coming from it. The tank is 20 years old and holds 18 gallons.

I've seen the "epoxy/glue-repair" kits. I don't want to take the chance of the leak springing anew while underway. I've seen (on-line) some of the repairs jobs folks have done on their tanks and they are largely unimpressive and look downright stupid and scarey.

What would you recommend for repair? Re-weld?

A new tank?

If you suggest a new tank would you use plastic or aluminum?

Can you recommend any tank suppliers?

[Pirate999]

New tank.

If you have a C30 I'd go to their user community and ask. I believe they have one of home largest owner groups around. They'll tell you where to get a new tank for that specific boat.

[PDA1]

Anybody else have any tank ideas?

[Scott Berg]

New tank... Check with Atlantic Coastal Welding

[Cheechako]

New tank. Plastic if available to fit. If it's an aluminum tank, and IF the leak is only on the bottom, you can have a new (and thicker!) bottom put on it for less. if it's below the floor (?) plastic would be a big plus. If it's aluminum and hard to get out you could skil saw the top off and put a plastic one inside it.

[Jim Cate]

What material is the tank, and where is the leak located on the tank?

Jim

[Nicholson58]

If new tank, I'd do 316L SS and make sure there is an inspection port on top. Our 4 water and 5 diesel tanks are 1984 custom welded & fitted. No leaks & still shiny inside.

If you chose to repair, cut an inspection port in the top and patch from inside.

Good advice on the group blog. Factory guys may also be helpful.

[gah964]

wow use SS and have a welder look at it.

[Pirate999]

Simple and will probably last longer than you own the boat.

Catalina Direct: Fuel Tank 17 GallonC-250, C-30