As a boat owner, having to replace your boat's fuel tank is a significant undertaking. Whether you're restoring something you just purchased or your boat's tank was damaged, you'll need to choose a new marine tank and install it. If you've never done this before, it's important that you understand some things. Here are a few tips to help you with the process.

Be Cautious About Steel Tanks

While steel tanks are durable and can hold up to a lot of abuse, water is still their kryptonite. When the tank is installed, it should be coated and sealed to protect the bottom of it from damage.

Since water seeping onto the top of the tank isn't easily spotted, you may end up with holes in a steel tank without even knowing it. You can avoid this by opting for a different type of tank. If you really want a steel tank, you can choose a hot-dipped galvanized steel tank. These are dipped with a galvanized coating that protects against water damage. However, if you have a boat that runs on diesel, the diesel fuel will deteriorate the coating due to the zinc in the coating.

Consider Alternative Materials

Whether you have a gasoline or diesel-powered boat, you don't have to opt for a steel tank. Marine tanks also come in aluminum and plastic varieties, too. Aluminum resists rust, which makes it a great choice for any kind of application where there's water involved. Similarly, plastic won't rust, but it may be a bit more susceptible to impact damage than an aluminum tank.

It is important to remember, though, that aluminum tanks can fall vulnerable to rust and corrosion between the mounting straps and the tank. The best way to avoid this is with the use of insulating straps between the tank and the mounting straps. Neoprene insulation can do just that, and you can even have it glued to the tank so that it is protected.

These are a couple of the things that you need to consider when you are installing a new marine fuel tank on your boat. Make the material choice according to your boat's specific needs and take the measures necessary to protect that tank from corrosion and other types of damage. Talk with your marine tank supplier today to see what your options are for your boat.

For more information, contact companies like Carr Enterprises.