Great Lakes Bass Fishing Forum

Bass Fishing => Bass Fishing Tips, Techniques & General Discussion => Topic started by: Got Fish?? on March 31, 2013, 12:24:16 PM

Title: plastic fuel tank
Post by: Got Fish?? on March 31, 2013, 12:24:16 PM
My boat mechanic tells me that  i need a new  feul tank, because of the mixtures in gas has changed. The fuels now are vary corrosive to my lines, seels and the tank itself. Is this true.
Title: Re: plastic fuel tank
Post by: Waterfoul on March 31, 2013, 12:44:06 PM
Some of it is true, yes.  Is your tank "onboard" or an orange can you can remove to fill?   The ethanol in todays gas will eventually eat the older fuel lines and can cause engine damage over time.  As for the tank, if it is polyethelene you are fine... they still make tanks out of it with no issues.  Replacing the fuel lines might not be a bad idea though.
Title: Re: plastic fuel tank
Post by: Lightningboy on March 31, 2013, 12:57:47 PM
First, what brand/year boat and motor?  Portable or built in tank?

If it's an old style metal portable tank, moving to a modern plastic one isn't a bad idea, as the old metal ones do corrode over time. 

Also, some built in fiberglass tanks made prior to 1991 may have resins leach out of the glass when ethanol containing fuels are used.  If you have a built in 'glass tank, contact the boat manufacturer about ethanol compatibility. 

Fuel lines should be replaced with modern ethanol approved lines.  The lining of older lines will deteriorate and flake, possibly clogging the fuel system in the motor.  For Mercury motors, you need the gray line with with blue printing.

Title: Re: plastic fuel tank
Post by: Got Fish?? on April 01, 2013, 04:21:39 AM
Thank you for the info. My tank is orange and I can remove it. I have been using a fuel additive. But I will replace the fuel line and primerball. My engine is an 86.