Gas Tank lifespan?

[excubey]

Hi,

I am new to the RIB-ing scene, just purchasing a 2001 Zodiac Pro Open 550 w/Yamaha 115hp 4 stroke engine.
I am also new to owning a powerboat! Mostly I have been a sailor previously.

My question is around the built-in gas tank of the boat. Since the boat is 10yrs old, are there any special tips around maintaining the tank? Should it be replaced / relined?

I haven't noticed any gas leaking into the bilge, but I want to prepare the boat for a lot use this summer, trying to get ahead of the issues.

Any suggestions or comments are very welcome

[captnjack]

What type of tank is it?

Aluminum tanks have a reputation for developing pinholes along the welds from dissimilar metal corrosion. (weld stick to base metal).

Old fiberglass tanks (much older than yours) are frequently incompatible with modern petrol additives.

Biggest issue IMHO with polyethylene tanks is abrasion rubbing holes in them.

Your boat is fairly young BTW.

[excubey]

I think it is aluminum (or could it be steel?)

I will have to double check that when I can get down to the boat again.

If there were pinhole leaks, I expect that would show up in the bilge as a shiny patch in the water?

[captnjack]

I suppose it could be stainless steel, someone here will probably know. I have had SS water tanks but never fuel.

If there are pinhole leaks into an enclosed space (bilge) you will smell gas before you see it.

But really, 10yo is nothing. Esp for a freshwater boat.

[excubey]

Glad to hear 10 yrs old isn't too old ! I am hoping to avoid major refitting bills at least for a couple of seasons.

[MustRib]

get it pressure tested...
I got mine done for £40.
Kept 1.5psi for 4 hours, I figured no leaks then
Its a 9 year old aluminium tank.

[jyasaki]

Originally Posted by MustRib

get it pressure tested...