Carver Owners Forum

Hi, names Phil, just got a 19900 Carver Californian 45 foot with Cat diesels. I was told that on some of these models the rear fuel tank can rust underneath. Does anyone know of this problem or a way to check for leaks before pumping in diesel fuel ??
Any help will be appreciated. Thanks. ps, LOVE the boat !!

You can do a pressure test on the tank. Seal the hoses and put 4-5 PSI in the tank and check for loss of pressure.

OK, thanks, that is what I thought I would try when I get down to the boat. If it leaks, where the heck do we get a new tank from?
Phil

PhilH wrote:Source of the post OK, thanks, that is what I thought I would try when I get down to the boat. If it leaks, where the heck do we get a new tank from?
Phil

There are a number of tank makers in FL.....google- marine tanks Florida.......

Phil, I also have a 1990, 45’ Californian. I had the port side saddle tank in the engine room spring a diesel leak. The yard removed the tank from the engine room by unfastening the port and center panel in the ceiling of the engine room (floor of the salon) and taking the tank out of the boat. I elected to have the tank refurbished rather than replacing the tank. Installation included a new ‘cushion’ of neoprene under the tank. No challenges since. An area to watch…the fuel supply lines on my Carver runs from the aft end of the tank and then goes up and over a bulkhead that separates the aft end of the boat and the engine room. The location where the two supply hoses go over the bulkhead caused both hoses to develop a crimp and reduce the flow of diesel when the Cats were run at planeing speeds (>2200 rpm). I replaced the hoses (about 10’) where they go over the bulkhead and have had no problems.
I have two places to observe and gain access to the aft tank on my Carver. Under the mattress in the aft cabin are two access panels that can provide you access to the bilge. If you get into this area, you can see the aft end of the tank with the shutoff valves. You can also check the trim tab tank and the steering hydraulic fluid tank. The other place is in an area located under the storage area, next to the steps going down into the aft cabin. This is the location of the aft HVAC in my Carver. If you remove the panel, you will see the top of the HVAC. Just forward of the HVAC should be an access hole where the fuel return lines and a second airline connects to the front of the tank. You need to be a bit of a contortionist to get into this hole, but it is there. Hope this helps.
Jeff