Sailboat Diesel Tank Replacement
Overview
Our client of Sailing Vessel Wind Sloth has an issue. Whilst refueling her diesel tank, the owner discovered diesel running into the bilge. We got called in, and after a thorough cleaning of the bilge, we set out to inspect and investigate.
We found the problem behind a brace, and after consulting with the client, it was decided not to repair the tank due to other corrosion concerns, but rather to do a full tank replacement.
This required the following:
- Getting the old tank out
- Manufacturing a custom tank
- Measuring and designing a new tank that will ensure future removal if needed
- Building a new custom diesel tank
- Installing tank and fittings
- Installing new Racor fuel filters
- Commissioning of new tank with bleeding and running diesel engine
- Final clean and owners approval
Job location: Kemah, Texas, USA
What this job needed
Getting the old tank out
As this was an original tank, with the boat being built around it, we had to prepare to get the tank extricated. This involved the following:
- Draining of the existing diesel tank
- Cleaning the bilge of diesel fuel
- Removing of all tank fittings
- Removal of all braces
- Cutting up the tank and removing it through the lazarette
Cleaning the tank of diesel bug prior to being discarded.
Manufacturing a custom diesel tank
- Measuring and designing a new tank that will ensure future removal if needed
- Building a new custom diesel tank
Installing tank and fitting
- New fuel sensor
- New fittings
Tank installed
- Tank braces installed
- All fittings connected
Cleaned out system
- Replaced Racor filters
- Bleed fuel lines
- cleaned fuel filter
- Primed system and got engine up and running