1981 Grand Banks 36 Classic Trawler w/ original aluminum fresh water tanks. There are two tanks by the transom and one has started leaking. Spoke to the yard service manager who gave me a rough quote of $15K-20K to replace and a week's labor.
Quick check of google found ready made plastic tanks in sizes close to the original ones.
Can someone give me their personal experience with this problem and a more reasonable ($) repair.
Thanks, Jay
Hi Jay. Based on my personal experience with each of my last three boats, all of which required either water or fuel tank replacement(s), your local yard quote of ~$20K (including the tanks), for a turn-key replacement with OEM-volume water tanks, is not unreasonable. While you can save considerable money if you do it yourself, this is not a simple job. You will likely encounter other items (rudder shelf(s), exhaust hoses, rot, water lines, paint, etc.) to R&R in the lazarette after you've reefed out the original tanks, as will the boatyard. Plan to spend additional time and money to remedy these issues as well, as there'll never be a better time to do so.
Much of the yard cost (and yours, should you chose to DIY) is hard, dirty work in a cramped location. And absolutely do BOTH tanks, as if one's failed, the second is on it's way. While Ronco roto-moulded plastic tanks are a viable replacement option, be aware that compromises in capacity will likely occur, as only custom welded metallic tanks can optimize the available volume and installation compromises. Furthermore, use of welded 316L stainless tanks from a respected marine tank manufacturer (or plastic, if you can stand the volume compromises) versus the OEM aluminum is HIGHLY desired. Joe Schmo the welder down the street is NOT your friend here, as choices of manufacturing method, material, wall thickness, baffling, welding techniques, testing, etc. are not things that should be compromised after going through the labor of removing, refitting the lazarette, and reinstalling your tanks.
Rocket science it's not. Standard marine engineering it is. Which doesn't come easy or cheaply. Personally, I prefer more water tank volume to less, and rest easier knowing mine are constructed of food-grade 316L stainless steel, properly resting, bedded, and secured.
Regards,
Pete
