Fuel Leak - Jeanneau 45DS

[wavelengthms]

After noticing a small amount of diesel in the bilge, I have at last found the source as there is a small pool of fuel under the fuel tank but I can't see any obvious leak. Before I take the tank out, I wonder if anyone has had a similar problem or has any information about the tank. Does it have a drain plug somewhere.

 

[Ripster]

Had a similar situation on my Bav 36. Its only a 2012 boat so I was surprised to find a pool of diesel coming from what looked like underneath the tank. When I eventually traced it by using some talcum powder, it was a seep from around the heater fuel feed on the top of the tank. Because of strange angles, the fuel seeped out and went back on itself before running down the blind side of the tank and dripping in the bilge. Easily solved with Hylomar and a reseal but, took a bit of nosing around to find the source. In your case, if you have not done so, I would first carefully check all the fuel pipes, feeds, returns, filler pipe and any vents.

 

[Tranona]

Unlikely there is a drain plug. All the fittings will be on top, so as Ripster suggested that is the first place to check. Also check the filler pipe and breather.

 

[Mistroma]

I don't know if the 45DS and 42DS have a similar type of tank. I remember reading about a leak on a 42DS and it was caused by a plug at the bottom of the tank. I think it was mentioned in the Jeanneau owner forum and I did make a point of checking our boat. No problem found but it is a pretty pointless drain plug. It sits at the forward inboard corner and there's a moulded bulge making a small water/sludge trap area. However, the tank sits on the hull lining and it's impossible to put a pot underneath. The only option would be to remove the plug and let contents run into the locker.

Perhaps the 45DS has a similar plug but the tank is mounted clear of the liner.