Petrol and glass fibre tanks

[Evenspread]

I am considering buying a older boat which has a large glass fibre petrol tank.
I have been told that there could be a problem with modern petrol and glass fibre and that the ethanol in the petrol disolves the fibreglass.

Has anyone any knowledge as to the truth in this and, if it is correct, does anyone know of any solutions which do not involve a new tank?

 

[30boat]

I am considering buying a older boat which has a large glass fibre petrol tank.
I have been told that there could be a problem with modern petrol and glass fibre and that the ethanol in the petrol disolves the fibreglass.

Has anyone any knowledge as to the truth in this and, if it is correct, does anyone know of any solutions which do not involve a new tank?

That's what the classic motorcycle fraternity is complaining about so I guess it's true.The cheapest solution I can think of is a bladder lining.

 

[Yacht Yogi]

Epoxy coat fuel tank

Cheapest fix to old glassfibre tank is to coat the inside with Epoxy resin. Lots of homebuilt aeroplanes use Epoxy/glassfibre fuel tanks with petrol (Avgas 100LL and ordinary petrol station stuff). You will need to get the insides of the tank really clean (sandpaper if necessary), which may mean cutting an access hatch in the top. Once it's clean and dry give it a couple of coats of Epoxy.