Leaking fuel tank

[Bob Robeson]

My fuel tanks seems to be leaking again. I have a 1986 C-36 and the fuel tank was relaced in 1991 with a 32 gal aluminum tank, but I am getting clean fuel in the bilge mostly after running teh engine. Has anyone replaced a fuel tank, and if so with what and where did you get it?Would you go with steel, aluminum or plastic?ThanksBobbrobeson@quixnet.net

[Mike s/v Chute the Breeze]

Bob, Are you sure it is the tank?? It should be ok if you had a new one in 91, but if that is your problem drain and remove. I would take it to a radiator shop they can go over the seams and reweld if that's what is leaking.. Much cheaper than a new tank, most shops will do this for 50 to 100 bucks once you get away from the shore..if u know what I mean Mike mosilver@netnitco.net

[LaDonna Bubak - Planet Catalina]

If you only find diesel in the bilge after running the engine, doesn't it make sense that there's a loose fitting somewhere? I'm no engine expert, but why would the tank leak *only* while the engine is running? Have you actually found where it's leaking? Before you remove the tank, you might have a mechanic come in & get a professional's opinion - could save a lot of aggravation! Good luck!LaDonna

[Craig Cody]

Your diesel may have a fuel return line, or fuel feed line that is probably leaking. The fuel pump draws diesel out of the tank and a pretty constant rate, but the injection pump only uses what it needs. The excess is returned to the tank via a fuel return line. One or the other may be cracked or leaking. My 36 had a new tank about the same time as yours (before I owned it), and when I first got it...I had a similar problem. I replaced the fill hose, feed hose, return hose and breather hose. Now the smell is gone, and I don't get any oil in the bilge. The breather, incidentally, was really clogged up with algae. I now add an addtitional biocide to my fuel. Had an unfortunate experience years ago on a Tayana 37 I owned, and an algae clogged breather...short version is, the engine starved for fuel, now wind and a strong current. Had to be towed in. (Humiliating). Anyway, change all the hoses for a start..they are 14 years old now.

[Gary]

My catalina 36 (1986) did the same thing---leaked. I replaced it with a 32 gallon tank from Catalina Yachts for $140.The new improved version comes with a wooden shelf that is installed first--hence the 3 gallon difference. I would check your fittings on the top of the tank first. Dry it off thouroughly and place toilet paper around any suspect areas and run the engin to see if you can locate just a loose clamp etc. Its better to get another "NEW" tank than to purge the existing one before you try welding it---take it from a fireman who has replaced his. Good luck........Gary