fuel tank installation

[jetblue319]

I have a new 60 gal factory tank to install. I don't want to use any foam so is there any ideals on how to reinstall this tank I was thinking of metal straps with 1x2 wood strips under the straps (like the way it way installed) secured to the side stringers. This for the top, but looking for ideas for bottom of tank to keep air flow around tank. How about zinc chromate. Primer for the tank and painted finished, thinking how the airlines protected the aluminum. Any suggestions appreciated.
Jet

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by jetblue319

I have a new 60 gal factory tank to install. I don't want to use any foam so is there any ideals on how to reinstall this tank I was thinking of metal straps with 1x2 wood strips under the straps (like the way it way installed) secured to the side stringers. This for the top, but looking for ideas for bottom of tank to keep air flow around tank. How about zinc chromate. Primer for the tank and painted finished, thinking how the airlines protected the aluminum. Any suggestions appreciated.
Jet

If it's an aluminum tank the first thing I would do is take it to a place that does powder coating and have it coated. That will go a long way towards preventing corrosion.

As to the mounting itself, shrink wrap the tank, then foam it in place like it normally is, then, after the foam is set cut the shrink wrap and simply remove the tank. It should lift right out since the foam is adhered to the other side of the shrink wrap and not the tank itself. Then cut any channels for water or air circulation you want into the dried foam, then place the tank back into the foam bed. Replace the top boards and straps and you're good to go.

[jetblue319]

Sounds like a plan. Just one last question, where do i get this foam that i will be using?
thanks again
jet

[smokeonthewater]

http://www.uscomposites.com/

or

http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/main.do

[jetblue319]

thanks for the websites

[Starzofchaos]

I found this while doing some research for fuel tanks.

http://marinesurvey.com/yacht/fueltank.htm
Gives a good idea on installation with some strips on the bottom of the tank, so that you keep it out of contact with the hull and allows some air to circulate.

As for doing a Alodine or Chromate chemical conversion coating and doing a Zinc Chromate or Zinc Phosphate epoxy coating on the exterior of the tank, it would be a good idea! Especially for installations that are going to be under a deck. One tank manufacture I believe speedytanks.com told me in a quote they will epoxy coat the out side of the tank.