Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: 1986 22 Outrage Fuel Tank Replacement

Posted by dclarke on 06/19/15 - 6:20 AM
#1

New to the site and was hoping someone could help me with the scale / cost / scope of replacing the fuel tank on a 22 Outrage 1986.

I am looking to purchase her, but nervous about what I could be getting myself in to.

Thanks,
Don

Posted by Scrappy5 on 06/19/15 - 7:25 AM
#2

First of all, are you going to do it yourself? Is this the original tank in the boat? Are there any soft spots on the deck/floor? Has the boat been kept outside uncovered? Give us some back ground. What is the fuel capacity? Does the new tank need to be plumbed for a single or twin motors?

Posted by dclarke on 06/19/15 - 7:39 AM
#3

Thanks for the post. Unfortunately, I haven't seen the boat in person yet, so I am not sure on any soft spots. It does appear that boat has been covered over winters.

It's in NJ and I am in RI. The current owner explained that it needs a new fuel tank. I will not be doing the work myself, just trying to get an understanding of how much it would cost. It would be for a single engine.

Thanks.

Posted by gchuba on 06/19/15 - 8:48 AM
#4

Best to get the boat professionally surveyed. The fuel tank may be the least of your worries.
Garris

Posted by mikegcny on 06/19/15 - 10:11 AM
#5

I have an 1984 Outrage 22 and I got a quote for 3K. That included everything from removing and disposing of the old tank, fabrication, installation and proper foaming of the new tank, etc.

Price was from a place on Long Island.

Posted by Phil T on 06/19/15 - 11:48 AM
#6

Why is the owner saying the tank needs to be replaced? Many tank issues are related to original fuel fill and vent and supply hoses that were not changed and degraded.

You should inspect the boat in its entirety. I would be more concerned about the motor.

Posted by powdahbonz on 06/19/15 - 12:45 PM
#7

While it's not a "fun" job, it is certainly doable. I did it on my 1981 V20 Outrage. Jeff Rohlfing is a great one to talk with as well. He has a photo bio of the process as well. The expense of a new custom tank will be your big expense. My deck plate was water logged and rotted and it took a forklift with lifting straps to free it and remove it from the hull. Once out, chip, dig and remove the old ply out, and redo that job, this time better than BW did the first time. I opted for a slightly smaller plastic tank than the 63g original aluminum but the fit was perfect. To the soft spots, I agree with others here. Look up the whaler diagrams that show the wood layouts so you can determine what your feeling for flex and where. If you don't have the stomach for this or unsure, I can email you pictures of my project so you can get a sense of what you're up against.

Edited by Joe Kriz on 06/20/15 - 11:52 AM

Posted by bcoastal on 06/19/15 - 2:04 PM
#8

$15 a gallon. Florida marine tanks built mine. The scope of work includes removing the console and deck. Its not hard and when you put it back together you got a solid rig ready to fish for a lifetime. I would plan on doing the job if you have a newer motor regardless what anyone else says... Worth every penny and second of time.

BTW a surveyor is not going to be able to see into the tank or the sides that touch the foam.. they might be able to ir the deck and tell you there is moisture... but all will have moisture.

Posted by rbritdu on 06/20/15 - 8:45 AM
#9

I replaced the Floor tank and all fuel hose etc. on my 1979 V22 Outrage , Not a fun job but doable . I got my Tank at Luther's in Bristol RI .. They also coated my tank with a special paint . I could not have done it or would not have attempted to do it if I hadn't seen Jeff R's post .. Thanks again Jeff

Edited by Joe Kriz on 06/20/15 - 11:53 AM

Posted by Joe Kriz on 06/20/15 - 11:54 AM
#10

Outrage Deck Repair in our Article section:
http://www.whalercentral.com/articles...ticle_id=8

Posted by Buckda on 06/20/15 - 12:41 PM
#11

Biggest part of the expense in replacing the tank is the labor - to make the new tank and to remove the old tank/install the new one. If your deck needs to be re-cored, I would attempt that using Divinycell or another lightweight core material instead of plywood, and install aluminum backing plates where the console and leaning post will be attached. Once re-installed, you will have a solid deck that will last for 30-40 years. It is a big job, which is why they quoted you $3k to replace it I would guess that they will add a clause that allows them to raise the scope of work/dollar amount once they get in there....and they will exercise that clause.

All told, that is a very reasonable quote, but it won't include re-coreing the deck if needed.

Posted by dclarke on 06/21/15 - 8:24 AM
#12

Thank you for all of the replies and advice; very helpful. I think I am going to pass on the boat and keep looking.

Much appreciated.