CONTINUOUSWAVE

Q1: should I cut lower drainage holes when replacing the fuel tank in my 1996 17 OUTRAGE?

No. [Cutting new and lower drain holes] is not necessary and would be a significant task that involves cutting into the liner which should be avoided at all costs.

The prevailing advice when replacing the fuel tank is to use expanding foam in the corners to hold the tank down. Leaving gaps will allow any moisture to evaporate.

The alternate advice is to use blocking strips of composite material as shims for the sides and omit the foam completely.

The typical lifespan of an aluminum tank is 30 years. Do you think you will still own the boat in 2052?

It’s the hole that goes back toward the bilge area. It seem 1.5” too high. Plus there is an empty space in there which also can collect water.