I will replace the deck in my 16' 1995 Lund Rebel tiller steer. It has a 73" beam, and no bench seats, just a flat floor. While I have the deck off, I want to install an under deck (internal,) fuel tank. It would not have to be large, but at least 3 gallons. I want to mount it midship or forward. I understand that floatation foam will likely be removed to accomodate a tank, but I will try to adjust the volume of replacement foam in other parts of the boat.
Given the limited space between deck stringers, is there an off-the-shelf tank available? Has anyone installed a tank in this manner, or under the casting deck in the bow?
Moeller does not list an internal tank that small or shaped to fit the hull and stringers. I can't find anything on the Lund website or previous posts at Iboats. I understand that custom made aluminum tanks could be an option, but the cost is likely more than I want to spend, so I want plastic, and off the shelf.
Definitely not an expert but what would be the difference between a below deck and above deck except the vent and fuel level sender?
Less clutter. With the tank off of the deck, more room for other clutter, or for 15 year old son who is bored and wants to lay out for a nap. The "open floor plan" of this boat, sans bench or permanently mounted seats, is to provide more room. We use camp chairs, and move 'em around as we need. Make fishing more enjoyable, without going to a heavier boat. Six gallon above deck fuel tank in addition to coolers, tackle boxes, anchors, net, dry clothes, labradors, batteries, etc., make for too much clutter.
Below deck fuel tank would be out of the way. 3-4 gallons would usually be enough, and spare 6 gallon above deck tanks could cover any contingency.
Maybe rebuild the bow compartment to hold two 12v batteries is next. Custom, side mounted ice chest after that, then side mounted tackle boxes...
Maybe I just don't know but is there some rule that says you can't use the cheap above tank for what you plan on doing? You'd have to provide ventilation but other than that???
Maybe I just don't know but is there some rule that says you can't use the cheap above tank for what you plan on doing? You'd have to provide ventilation but other than that???
Coast guard rule that ventilation be proper. Common sense rule says don't screw up the ventilation. I am willing to bubba the deck and move foam around, but not bubba a proper below deck ventilation system onto/into a portable fuel tank. (I'd hate to see my son do the "bottle rocket" as the fuel ignites under the casting deck.) Off the self is what I am looking for.
I don't think you are going to find what you are looking for. I have seen snowmobile fuel tanks before that have a narrow profile but that is going to be tough still to find one that fits. Do a search on on snowmobile gas tanks. Maybe try:
I understand what you are trying to accomplish and you might be successful- although you may have to have a custom one made (yeah, I know you don't want to spend the $$).