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Bud's plastic tank installation on W32

  • December 30, 2014 8:44 AM
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    Message # 3178306
    Deleted user

    Hi - 

    I'm replacing SS tanks with the same dimension plastic tanks I got from Bud and I'm curious to know how the uneven bilge problem was solved. The aft tank acts as a teeter totter on the uneven bilge surface. I don't feel comfortable installing the tank in this manner without knowing what the impact might be on the tank once it's filled with weight of the water. 

    Initially, I installed 3 lengths (48" long) rubber strips to set the tanks on. The forward tank is fine, however the aft tank has the teeter totter issue. I created 4 teak shims to shore up the aft end of the aft tank, but I abandoned that method due to it's less than elegant design/function. At this point, I realized I needed to drop back and punt. 

    I would love to hear how others designs worked out. Pictures would be great if possible. I have a tendency to over-think things and make them more complicated than necessary, as Bud and David King can attest to. Bud has reminded me on numerous occasions that the boat doesn't need to fly.

    Best,

    Dan McCaughan, Mithrandir - #310

    Last modified: December 30, 2014 9:00 AM | Deleted user
  • January 21, 2015 2:07 PM
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    Reply # 3206621 on 3178306
    Deleted user

    This is something that will work and will take all the stress of the tank. "if i explain it correctly"  (1) You get a plank of material that would stand up to moisture and water, such as "Starboard, Lexan plexiglass, Aluminum, or the new recycled plastic used for building exterior decks".  (2)  Use any one of these materials for a bedding platform so the tank sits directly on to it, this will give it a level bottom and very solid.  (3) Now to remove the uneven surface of the bilge you can make some small stringers' that wont rot" to sit underneath the beading plank or use a leveling agent such as " epoxies with an anti sag in it ". As for thickness for planking will be determined on material used. In plastic min. 1/2" i would go 5/8" aluminum 1/2". Build it wright build it strong. It will last the test of time. By just using stringers or shims directly under the tank, yes you will create week points and sagging in time that could lead to loosening.  

    Lawrence from : LA VALJES ,  May the wind always be in your sails.
  • January 22, 2015 10:18 AM
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    Reply # 3207914 on 3178306
    Deleted user

    Just stick them in and strap them down.  Fifteen years ago we replaced our tanks with Bud's and had the same considerations. We decided overthinking it wouldn't make it any better and put them in just like the old ones.  Don't worry about it, the material is supper tough and will last forever.

    Jim
  • April 28, 2015 8:30 PM
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    Reply # 3321047 on 3178306
    Deleted user

    Hello,

    Sorry for the late response, but I wanted to thank those folks that offered advice about how to install the tanks. It took me some head scratching, but I finally got the job done.

    Thank you much,

    Dan
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