1996 370 AC

[hkyplr18]

I've tried to search the forum to answer this with no luck but what is the process for removing an engine in these aft cabins? I am looking at a 96 370 AC that has a port side fuel tank leaking. I understand the associated engine on that side would need to be removed so the tank can come out. Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks

[tomschauer]

Unless you are a really good mechanic, and have a bunch of burley friends, I would get a quote from someone to replace the fuel tank before buying the boat. Not sure where you are located, as labor rates vary greatly, but I would be surprised if 5k covers the work.

[km1125]

On many of these boats where the tanks are outboard of the engines, it's easier to have a fiberglass guy cut open the side of the boat so the tank can be removed and replaced. They can replace the side and make it virtually indistinguishable that it was cut out. They also do this for the tanks that are inside the swim platforms on boats.

[Viper]

In most cases it's not that hard to remove an engine. You don't have to get it out of the boat for tank replacement, just out of the hole and over to the side while you tackle the tank. It's done all the time. I'd only cut the side of the hull if the boat's layout above the engine makes it prohibitive within reason to haul the engine out from above. Cutting the hull side comes with it's own set of challenges and sometimes long term affects. It better be a good glass tech with a good eye for matching gelcoat colour, that's not easy to do and will be noticeable if not an exact match. Seen a lot of big jobs have to be redone because they stuck out like a sore thumb. It's not always apparent right at the beginning either, sometimes it takes time for the difference to show up.