So far TJ and I have pulled the console and outboard off this Mako 19. Decks are cleared for some destructive fun...
With console removed, we pulled the screws and pried up the deck panel covering the fuel tank. Some good pry bars were needed to break the sealant/adhesive bond securing the panel.
The aluminum tank was as expected, a mess. It looked as if it washed up on a beach then spent a few years beside a dumpster in some alley. The good news - it appears sound, no leaks. From first glance we have two options. Option one - send it out for professional cleaning with new fuel pick up and sending unit installed. Or option two - replace with a new tank of similar dimensions. We are favoring the complete replacement. Why? Because it's the easiest way to ensure good fuel (til they finally perfect the hydrogen fuel cell outboard ;)
We cut the last umbilical - fuel fill and supply hoses - and pulled the tank. From the stale fuel smell wafting from the bilge, it's obvious these hoses failed some time ago. We are likely looking at original fuel hose from circa 1970. Bad fuel tanks below deck are common in classic Makos, Seacrafts and Whalers of this vintage. The quick fix is simple. Just throw an above deck tank on deck and forget about the mess in the bilge. But since the decks are coming up next, it makes perfect sense at this stage to ensure any engine is fed good, clean fuel.
Pausing with the fuel tank for it's final goodbyes to the old Mako, we pitched it over the side. We're now ready for some reckless fun with the Sawzall as we cut out the sore spots.
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