BoatworksToday · video

What this video covers

Replacing an existing 80-gallon fiberglass fuel tank in a Bertram project boat offers significant weight savings and long-term reliability benefits over retaining the current unit. The original fiberglass tank, while potentially constructed with ethanol-resistant resin, presents a liability for future resale due to historical issues with polyester resin degradation in modern ethanol-blended fuels. Switching to an aluminum tank would reduce the vessel's overall weight, which is critical because the current static waterline sits within one inch of the scuppers. Furthermore, an aluminum tank allows for increased fuel capacity without adding weight, as the current fiberglass tank weighs approximately 300 pounds. The project involves converting the boat from twin inboards to twin Honda 130 outboards mounted on an Armstrong bracket, shifting weight aft and necessitating careful management of the center of gravity. Future steps include sourcing quotes from metal fabricators to determine if the cost of a custom aluminum tank justifies replacing the existing fiberglass unit.

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