Flexible fuel tanks

Paul · 19 November 2001, 10:48

In our 4.0metre Avon searider we have not got much room to store gear as well as extra fuel for extended trips. Also on the two previous occasions where we have been swamped I was concerned that water in the fuel may cause reliability problems (fortunately it did not). I think that flexible tanks strapped to the tubes may be the answer to these problems. We would need a capacity of around 15 gallons. Does anybody have any experience with flexible tanks? Also does anybody know a company that sells them?

Alan · 19 November 2001, 11:22

Team Spirit used a couple of these tanks on the RB4 raid this year. They were ex (or probably still current) RNLI kit on loan. (Mark F being a lifeboatman). Think they hold around 4-5 gallons apiece. Being RNLI kit they are built to cope with anything. Shouldn't imagine they are very cheap though!

Alan

jace · 19 November 2001, 16:02

The tanks are made by Sea flex on the Isle of Wight, and your right they are not cheap. Cost around £250.00 for 6 Gallon. EC Smith marine factors also Import a much cheaper version but I haven’t used one as yet.

Flexi tanks are expensive but will totally eliminate the worry of water getting into the fuel, as they don’t require a breather. Bit of an art to fill them up though!

Paul · 19 November 2001, 18:56

Sound pricey. Are they easy to strap to the tubes and secure when in place

Alan · 19 November 2001, 22:00

the flexitanks tie to the grabhandles/lifelines on the tubes and hang inside the boat along the tubes. Guess you need pretty robust grab handles!!

Alan

batfalcon · 21 November 2001, 12:34

Have in mind that these tanks show damages at the creases when they puncture.