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How to Repair a Boat Gas Tank

Many boats utilize plastic gas tanks to prevent premature rusting due to exposure to water. However, being made of plastic does not prevent holes. A small hole in a boat can leave you stranded, waiting for rescue. If you obtain a small hole in your boat̵7;s gas tank, do not take the boat out onto the water until you take the time to patch the gas tank. Patching prevents the cost of removing and replacing the gas tank.

Things You'll Need

Siphon hose
Gas can
Two-part epoxy
Epoxy applicator

Instructions

- 1
  Drain the fuel from the boat̵7;s gas tank into an approved gas container with a siphon hose. Although not required for applying epoxy sealer to the tank, it prevents personal exposure to gasoline while you complete the repair. However, if you choose, you can forgo draining the tank.
- 2
  Mix the two-part epoxy together. Use epoxy designed to work with petroleum based products. Fuel can eat through some epoxies so make sure you use an epoxy that will work.
- 3
  Kneed the epoxy in your fingers until it turns into a putty that has uniform color. Keep in mind that the epoxy will harden within a few minutes so time is of the essence.
- 4
  Apply the epoxy mix over the plastic surface and press it into the crack. Smooth out the edges with a plastic epoxy applicator. Remove any excess epoxy before it has time to harden. Follow the directions on the epoxy packaging for curing times. Usually, the epoxy hardens completely within a few hours.

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