Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

[davidlanegnderfer]

I have done all the trouble shooting and replaced a lot of parts. I think I finally came to the realization that I have a bad tank of gas. What is the easiest way to remove the tank? Do I need to tear up the entire floor or with it fit out the ski hold? What are others experience with siphoning gas out, do you get all the "bad" stuff out or would it be better to remove the entire tank?

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

Welcome to iBoats. . .

You should determine how large the tank is so that you can see how big of a hole you will need in the cockpit deck to remove it. Probably not going to fit through the ski locker, but measuring will tell.

it would be best to get the tank as empty as possible so that it is as light as possible. Seal off all (all) of the openings/fittings to the tank and avoid things that make sparks (ka-boom).

is the tank foamed in? If so allow some extra time and effort to dig out enough foam so that you can lift the tank from the hull.

it took me about 1 week to remove the tank from my boat . . . No fun.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

I have done all the trouble shooting and replaced a lot of parts. I think I finally came to the realization that I have a bad tank of gas. What is the easiest way to remove the tank? Do I need to tear up the entire floor or with it fit out the ski hold? What are others experience with siphoning gas out, do you get all the "bad" stuff out or would it be better to remove the entire tank?

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,... Pump it out,..... I use an ole electric fuel pump, 'n pump right outa the diptube,...

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

Draining it is a lot simpler.

 

[crabby captain john]

Re: Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

You do not need to remove the tank-- only the contents in it. Pumping it out is easy. Determine how much is in the tank 1st. Then have a place to dispose of it.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

Yup, I *think* I mis-read the original post . . . If it is just the gas that is bad, and not the tank itself, draining/pumping would be the way to go.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Removing Gas Tank from 1987 Chaparral 187XL

Do a search on "polishing". It is a method to clean and filter the fuel in the boat.