Saddle Gas Tank

[teamdaddy]

I've got an older Sea Pro 176 center console with a saddle type gas tank, mounted on the right side wall. I've just had some engine work done and before I start using it again, I was wanting to give the gas tank and good check out and cleaning. However, other than a 6" inspection port, there is no way to access the gas tank.
Was wondering if some of you could tell me how to go about checking it out. Will I need to cut a large opening in the side wall to access the tank, or is there something else I could do to keep from having to do this kind of surgery. I will say, the boat is getting pretty old ('89 model) and to my knowledge, nothing has ever been done to the tank.
Thanks for any help.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,.... Most boat manufacturers don't provide access, some do,.....

Is the side panel removable,..??

If not, I guess you'll need to cut it out,.....

Another option is to polish the fuel in it,....
That's the process of pumpin' the contents through filters, over, 'n over, 'n over again,.....

 

[Grub54891]

Has the tank given you any problems? If not leave well enough alone. If it has debris in it, you can pull the fuel sender and flush from there. A good water separating filter installed in line would do a lot for keeping the fuel clean.

 

[teamdaddy]

The side panels aren't removable. This boat is new to me and I got it with a motor that wasn't working. It had also been sitting up for about four years prior to me getting it. I had a marine mechanic go through the motor and got it running good and I just didn't want to take any chances with the old fuel. It does have a water separator on it, but the fuel is still probably sour and gummed up. I'll try flushing from the fuel sender first and if that doesn't work, I'll get the saw out. Thanks for your help.

 

[Grub54891]

How about some pics of the boat and area you are trying to access?