Gas tank on my boat is leaking where float goes into tank.

Question

I have a 2001 Reinell, i was wondering what is the best way to stop the tank from leaking. it is leaking where the float goes into the tank. i was going to silicone it, but i think the gas might eat through the silicone. Does anyone know what the best thing to use is or what they normally use when they put a new float in the tank?

Answer 1

There is a gasket between the sender & tank that's all that's needed>Check and see if the screws are tight?? Any sealent could end up in the tank causing issue with the pick up>

Answer 2

The best thing to do would be to get a new gasket for the float, however there is RTV silicone that is designed for fuel applications, you can buy it at any autoparts store.

Answer 3

Buy a new tank insert gasket.  That's what it came with, that's what you use.  Do you really want to chance an explosion by using some kind of "fixitall"?

Answer 4

I would not use silicone . There should be a gasket of some sort on it. Pull the sending unit out and get a gasket, or some gasket material paper or cork or rubber and make one, You can get gasket material at an autoparts store..............UJN............

Answer 5

There is a product called Seal-All that is carried at most auto parts stores and at Wal-mart in the auto section. It states on the package that it is impervious to gasoline, oil, or diesel fuel. You might have to drain the tank enough so that the fuel isn't actively leaking before applying it. I used it to seal pinholes on the tanks on my diesel pickup and they do not leak now, a full year later. Be sure to have the surface well cleaned before applying,  wipe away any fuel first, then wash with soap and water and then with a solvent such as acetone or lacquer thinner.

Answer 6

go to the auto supply store and talk it over with the counter dude and see what your options are --- the guys behind the counter can be a good friend  if you give both of you a chance to be amigos ---  there are gasket materials that are made to hold up to the gasoline sealer problem and sillycone is not one -- actually silicone is a poor product to use on any boat ... I realize that I am not giving you the best answer but advice is part of this web-site --- same as going to a boat dealer... most of the time they do not want people in the work bays and parts are expensive and the wait is even longer ...  the auto supply is the best place to go and the parts are the most reasonable .. good luck and go make a new friend .....