| Author | Message | ||
     Gary Hendrickson Rating: N/A |
Those plastic (polyethylene) tanks tend to develop cracks and leaks at their threaded fittings and around the pads for these. A company in Milwaukee (can't remember name right now) also claims to have made holding tanks for the 9.1 and has a polyethylene one in their catalog that appears to have dimensions pretty much identical to the one that was in my boat, for $350 list. When you order, you tell them where you want them to locate the 3 hose fittings. But I decided I'd rather have a metal tank - stainless or aluminum. Took measurements of my tank and its mounting area, made a drawing showing the dimensions and close tolerances needed, and put it out for bid to fabrication shops in the Racine Wisconsin area. Got several offers with prices ranging mainly $500 - $650. However I ordered one from a small fabricator that makes aluminum ones occasionally for Palmer Johnson's Marina in Racine for about $225. It should work out to be basically a "drop-in." When I get it installed, I'll post a review. Reason for choosing aluminum? Odors can't "leach" through a tight metal tank like they can thru plastic, even polyethylene. I plan to replace the inch and a half vinyl sanitary hose to head with heavy-construction diesel fuel-type hose as suggested in Practical Sailor, and now offered by West Marine and BOAT/US, for same reason. My drawing specifies an alloy of aluminum that tends to tolerate 90 degree bends without cracking, so that I could reduce number of welded seams, per advice from my surveyor. I'm happy to provide particulars once this proves out. Incidentally, the water and fuel tanks in my boat, both aluminum, look pretty decent, and the OEM fabricator might be a good bet as a supplier if still around. Hull 94 |
