Fuel tank

[Alexis]

Hello there,
I'm currently rebuilding a GRP 34footer (sail). for several reasons, I wish to brake up the current fuel tank, wish is laminated with the hull in an aftercabin, and replace it with at SS or Polythene model in a cockpit locker. The thing is as the cabin will be my kids', I'd like to be sure I can get rid of the pong due to the fuel beeing in contact with the GRP for at least 10 years now.

Any experience or suggestions ?

Alexis

 

[vyv_cox]

My son worked as a fleet and base engineer for Sunsail for several years. He advises that they always dosed diesel spills with Toilet Duck to remove the smell. Apparently very effective for spills, can't say for longer term soaking. My first thought would be to have it steam cleaned in view of the magnitude of the job.

 

[PaulJ]

I would agree with Vyv and if it still smells after that you could try coating it with a few coats of epoxy which is impervious to most things.

 

[kgi]

I agree with PaulJ two or three coats of epoxy should do the trick, mind you it would do no harm to wipe the area with a strong solvent, alternatively you could grind half a millimeter off of the hull to reduce the fuel soaked gel, and then go with PaulJs idea

 

[Alexis]

Many thank to the three of you for your guidance and suggestions.

Sorry for not having thanked you earlier, I was momentarily diverted from boating matters du to the birth of my first daughter.

Cheers, Alexis

 

[PaulJ]

CONGRATULATIONS !!!

 

[castaway]

Congratulations; However I remember that I was fitting out a 29ft fin keeler when my 1st born arrived. I recon that I got half the job done in the 6 months before he arrived and 8 years to finish it after!!! (mind u we did have 3 more in close order in the next few years)

Good luck Nick