As is probably almost always the case, I have been mis-led by a broker with reference to fuel tank replacement on the Grand Banks 42 Classic which I have under contract. This broker advised that the cost to replace the tanks would probably run in the neihborhood of $15K. This morning I contacted what I am told is a well known and highly regarded yard, Marlow Marine in Palmetto, Florida and they gave me an estimate of $22-24K. Their method is to cut out the bottom of the boat, replace the tanks and then glass it back up. Wondering if anyone on the list has any experieince at this in the Florida area? Probably wishful thinking, but I am wondering if someplace can do it any cheaper. I am aware of the "stacked tank" method being employed by OYA in Maryland, but since they are about 1300 miles away it really doesn't matter too much what they are charging. Jim Alexander

   Would it be possible to cut the tanks up - in place - with a saw zaw

All the Best
        Ken

Their method is > to cut out the bottom of the boat, replace the tanks and then glass it back > up Hi Jim, Would it be possible to cut the tanks up - in place - with a saw zaw to take them out in pieces -- Then to replace them with somewhat smaller tanks - possibly ready made ones - or even poly tanks which is used here by most of the crab boats equipted with diesel .???? Still a most unpleasant job - but might cost one heck of a lot less than 15 or 20 K !! Most of our boats are overtanked anyway IMHO ... All the Best Ken

    Would it be possible to cut the tanks up - in place - with a saw zaw

   All the Best
         Ken

> > > Hi Jim, > > Would it be possible to cut the tanks up - in place - with a saw zaw > to take them out in pieces -- Then to replace them with somewhat smaller > tanks - possibly ready made ones - or even poly tanks which is used here > by most of the crab boats equipted with diesel .???? > > All the Best > Ken Cut mine up with a torch , after degassing , and then went back in with 2 instead of 1 and the two are sistered, that is one deck fill does both tanks and one tank feeds the other. Note two vents , however. CCC -- Charles and Pat Culotta Patterson, La http://www.geocities.com/charlesculotta/