THIS BOAT IS TROUBLE! Dealing With Diesel Bug On A Boat! 

total respect getting those tanks out Simon. Massive job well done.

Good call to remove the tanks. Look back at your trial number 5; the port engine is steaming more than the starboard one. This suggests the heat exchanger may be constricted. It (they) can be descaled with acid. Watch the water temperature on your next trial. Keep plugging on, you will get there in the end. 😊👍

I think you will have to bite the bullet and replace both tanks to be on the safe side. Poly or stainless is the way to go. Corrosion scabs in your tank will not get better only worse. Best of luck to both of you Regards Mike

“He’s just squidded on me”……. classic!!! 😂

I would have suggested cutting the bottom off the tank, clean the sides baffles and underside of the top and welding a new skin on the bottom of the tank. While you have the tanks out add a drain port so when they are returned if you ever need to empty them it would just be a drain tap. Also when you put the deck back use bolts so you don't need to use a cutting disk to remove it.

Those black lumps are HCC scale, it's the same stuff you find in your oven and what is found in the heat exchangers in oil refineries, warning it burns very well it can also self ignite, would be a good idea to cut the bottom of the tanks off and have a good clean out and replace with new steel

I can see that you’ve moved heavy objects solo before. That has been my lot in life. Everyone calls me for help, yet rarely is anyone available when I’m in need. Great work you two.😁God’s Blessings from beautiful Cobbs Creek Virginia, USA

Must admit, I'd have gone for a pair of new poly tanks...

Simon, please wear eye protection when cutting fiberglass. In fact always when using an angle grinder, saw, etc.

You guys are not "normal" and I mean that as a compliment. 90% would have just replaced those tanks rather than trying to save them. But you two are so exceptionally handy and innovative that you will save those tanks. That is what makes it so fun and informative to watch. Great job!

You two are text book examples of it is not what happens to but how you respond! Absolutely love how you two are persistent and overcome the issues encountered.!!

You two are absolutely fabulous, your dedication and hard work is inspiring. As a boat owner and a mechanic I applaud you for the work you are prepared to carry out in search of memories out on the water. A top team for sure.

So sorry for all this diesel crap. These tanks look like they’re at the end of their life. Push that boat out again and get new tanks! ❤️❤️

Looking at the state of those tanks I'd be tempted to start again, either with new tanks or fabricate them yourselves? But you guys are brilliant, you'll sort it.

I had power boats since the 80's and if you permit me, for safety reasons i strongly recommend to install a pair of NEW tanks. Don't forget to replace all the fuel lines, fuel valves and filters. Best regards from Brazil

Norman Cooper I am a retired balancing engineer, and the firm that straightened the drive shaft and propellers should have balanced them, preferably on their respective drive shaft. unbalance will certainly give you the vibration your experiencing, and may pay you to investigate whilst the boat is on hard standing,

Those tanks are rotten. Fit new poly tanks they’re much lighter too

Simon, the combination of patience, knowhow and problem solving is second to none. The fact you do it all while adding in the complications of filming is beyond my comprehension. But I appreciate you bringing us along for the journey.

Hi, when diesel bug was originally treated ,the treatments used to solidify it as you have . Today's treatment doesn't do this . But bug is more of an issue today as bio diesel added to all diesels. I suggest you fit a polishing system to your boat after sorting this. Get the bottom skin cut off and new fitted , please don't over skin .

They certainly cleaned up better than I i expected, but rust never sleeps and there's visible corrosion in the cleaned areas. Considering the amount of work it takes to remove and reinstall them, as well as how vital they are, it's worth considering replacements. Maybe having stainless steel ones fabricated?

This series of videos on both your vessels is absolutely fascinating. As a suggestion, would it be more cost effective to have new fuel fabricated rather than spend lots of man/woman hrs in cleaning the original tanks followed by repairing them ? Just a suggestion. Keep up the good work 👍

These tanks are bogus, time for new plastic types . Or bag tank within the old tank. Obviously keep you tanks full every time you leave it for while. This to prevent condensation inside the tank. As I said before make a cross feed system and a filter unit that keeps pumping diesel around.

Simon did a massive job getting those tanks and the fuel out! Only thise of us who’ve done jobs like that on our boats can really appreciate the effort. It’s sad to say that when buying a used boat, you get to find out why it was sold. Often the previous owner ran out of patience, or money or both and the buyer gets the result. You are going about this the right way. It’s discouraging to have to fix the things you can’t readily see, but that’s the reality. Keep this in mind while working on Sarinda. You are learning some of the many things that can be lurking unseen. Perseverance is the key. Find and fix, and repeat… BTW, it was fun to see Emilia, casually stroll in front of the camera. You have a great family.

I think U guys should replace those tanks! Start fresh & use POR 15 tank cleaner, acid & sealer on new tanks! U will never have an issue with fuel tanks again! If ur gonna try & save the old tanks, b sure 2 use the POR 15 kit 2 acid wash, clean & coat the inside! After welding up those holes, of course! Good luck guys! 👍❤️👏

Buy cheap spend lots is Jim Davidsons philosophy , Shes nearly there after a few issues its a learn as you go experience. My money to buy my own is on its way 52ft Sunseeker Manhattan. Teamwork makes the DREAMWORK You've got this.

Great work you two. Simon is a very clever bloke getting that drum in the van on his own.

Kudos for sticking with it, this is a huge lesson that many boaters or boat renofitters should listen to honestly, I'd advise checking the complete system from injectors back to tanks all metal parts every fitting. Honestly, I would scrap those tanks, and start fresh..after checking those motors again .. something is not right with that motor either the thermostats, sensor or HE .. worse heads. We had a boat, a converted West Coast Salmon trawler come into the yard after a near disaster as the tanks drained into bilges overnight. This after they had just replaced the steel tanks for SSteel ones ( not our job) the fittings were coming apart as we replaced them. We have polished out fuel, but when still it's that bad or suspected .. we recycle it and refill it with new fuel.. if nothing else, it gets rid of a diagnostic variable. we use to use an old welding rod cabinet with a 300-watt bulb for the incubator and for keeping pies warm ..

while you're at it with the fuel tanks etc, I suggest you change all the fuel lines as well

Simon is a pretty determined and ingenious fellow..glad this is nothing he can't handle

Love the fact that you two are straight in without hesitation. Your certainty not scared to take on anything you come across. Keep going your hard work will pay off. Can't wait to see the power the engines are capable of..

The crunchy stuff is mostly rust, not diesel bug: The tanks have sat with water in the bottom. Cut the bottom skin off & weld a new one on, but add a small sump with a drain valve so you can drain off any water periodically. You can give the old fuel a shot of biocide as a bit of insurance against future problems - we used to use one by Grotamar.

Having seen the corrosion, I think I would ask around, but price up a stainless replacement or see if it is possible to galvanise the repaired tank including the pieces to cover the inspection holes.

Having seen the corrosion on the tank sides - never mind the holes in the bottom - I'd say totally scrap them and replace with new. They've been empty for a long time, and damp has got in - possibly temperature variations making them 'breathe', so will only get worse in the long run.

That was a close call, smart to completely remove the tanks and get them inspections done in the work shed.. crazy what some people do to their stuff.. maybe the ship crash landed to the ground because the engines went out of control because of bad fuel going in. I can't believe anyone would fix a leak in a tank like this. So much fun seeing you two working :-)

Love your enthusiasm and work ethic guys, inspiring 😊

Great job with the tanks. I know it would be very expensive, but I would have the tanks examined by a tank expert. My suspicion is. after all those years, they are time expired and in the end after all you have gone through, the tanks will have to be replaced anyway. That also may apply to your navy ship. Good luck!

The rust on the sidewalls is concerning to me. After cleaning, I’ve had tanks acid dipped, and lined to cover and encapsulate whatever rust is left. There are DIY kits available, but I always elected to have someone that does it all the time handle the job. Most radiator repair places do lining jobs, at least here in Dallas Texas😎

The two of you are simply the BEST! 👍🇨🇦

Tanks for this episode

Agree 2 x new poly tanks, reduce weight and no corrosion in the future!

At the very least i would cut the bottoms off both tanks and replace with fresh steel, that way you can access any dodgy looking rust spots on the rest of the tanks and treat/repair as necessary. However I would love to see Simon fabricate new tanks from stainless or ally, but appropriate time and money is always an issue. You guys always do such great work, keep it up, can't wait to find out what route you take.

Who is the old guy. I might have missed his introduction. I think he is amazing. I can tell that he turns off his eyes and lets his feet, ears, body “read” the boat. A real pro.

I appreciate ALL the circumstances but some things just have to be replaced. Safety is paramount. Do the right thing and replace them. You'll be surprised how much support you will have.

Fantastic job getting those two tanks out by yourself, Si. Those fuel tanks will be almost as good as new by the time you get done with them.

Iam thinking simon should engage his mad welding skills and make up some new tanks

Full respect for effort

Excellent guys

You pair have a fantastic couple of You Tube channels. Your 'can do' attitude is remarkable and your ability to capture and keep our interest is a winning formula. The structure of your videos is just right and the quality of the camera work is first rate. I always look forward to your new videos and they always brighten my day - thank you!

Can't wait for the next episode! 😊

We are so impressed with your stamina to get those tanks out and cleaned! We look forward to watching the work to come.

Simon, I take my hat off to you for your perseverance. I love a challenge but this is a massive task but very rewarding once completed 👍😁

I removed a single 20 gallon historic steel tank from my 1976 Seamaster for the same reasons. Cleaned it and put it back, and it was fine for 6 weeks - then small leak at bottom plate on weld seam. Took it out again. Although no visible holes like you have, the bottom plate is worn and pitted in places. Re-plated (4mm) over existing, coming up sides 100mm. Re-fitted bottom 3/4" drainplug. No weld joints at base of tank as forged the steel around the old tank with 90 degree bend(like a pan) and continuous weld 100mm around the sides. So no weld exposed to boat hull. One guy at marina workshop said replace with new plastic tank (but I am old fashioned traditionalist)

I am just amazed you two never give up rock on peace and love

Amazing video, can't help thing though that you will have to write off the tanks. I have no idea what the price of new tanks is but if you can that has to be the best way forward for peace of mind. You guys are brilliant, such hard workers... thanks for sharing the good and the bad 🙂

My grandson and really enjoy your channels. Your boat adventures really brings use joy. He 7 wanting to build himself a big boat 🚢 that he can sail around the world 🌎.. So really thank you for helping him find something he interested in... He watches all your videos more than once...

Fit a Fuelmag fuel conditioner in the fuel line from the tank before the filters. The product is made in New Zealand and consists of housing with a magnet by which the fuel flows around.

When you get the tanks cleaned and are filling them back up, add some fuel stabilizer to keep the diesel from gelling. This is a common problem in old tractors that sit all winter, too. Should be able to pick this up at any auto shop, but it's worth seeing if there are any that are specifically marine grade.

You guys have all my sympathy. I hope it goes better than it looks.

What fun this woman is to have aboard your a lucky fella

Hi guys, wow I’m glad you took the tanks out and you had a good look at them imagine being in the middle of the ocean and all that diesel let’s go and one spark and I would’ve been all over love and appreciate you both and your family can’t wait to see this boat up and running again. Keep up the good work. Love your videos Cliff from Logan city Queensland, Australia 🇦🇺from the big island 🏝️🧑🏾‍🦽🦘🐨🐬🌏

I agree with a lot of the people ! You really need to replace both tanks and I would lean towards polycarbonate because can’t rust or corrode.

I would save any future headaches and replace those tanks. You will sleep better 😎

Great video, I felt your frustration with the sea trial. Well done on removal of fuel tanks. You have some great ideas and ability to work things out in a relaxed and informative way, very inspiring to see you working together on his project. Keep it up you are giving us a lot of entertaining and interesting videos. All the best.

Good job guys 😊

Super fine work !! thank you for video of fuel problems. Love your work together ! Hang in and keep up the good work.

Incredible job Simon. To get those tanks out by yourself, with no problems is amazing. To me it looks obvious that you've found the problem. I'd be happy to come for a fish on the boat now.

Great job guy's. Don't risk it.... New tanks. Those aluminium tanks look well past their sell by date. Good luck and keep smiling :-)

Just a thought, there is a lot of rust spots, which could mean leak problems in the near or far future. How much would new plastic tanks cost?, might be cheaper than fixing those steel tanks!!

Good job on pulling those tanks. Diesel fuel tank contamination plays no favorites. I once bought a used tractor that had the same problem. Of course it showed up when I was cutting hay. Fortunately I still had the old faithful International so was able to finish the job. The "cure" was to get both tanks clean, clean out the fuel lines and filters, and no more problems. Diesels are amazing engines for agricultural and marine applications as long as you have clean fuel and filters. I agree with the suggestion of replacing the tanks with Poly or Stainless...assuming that is in the budget. Best regards.

Simon as we say in Ireland, 'Yer A Horse of a Man' getting a 200 litre drum into the van on your own, never mind getting the tanks out. Hopefully, fingers crossed you have broken the back of the issue. I would suggest you pressure test the tanks after all the welding etc. 15.7 /16.7 psi should be enough, once its slightly above 1 bar. Soapy water on any fittings & welds will show up a leak. We once had a mobile water tank built in stainless steel. The guy who built never tested it. We did when we saw all the welds turning a wet shade. The welds were like Aero. He Tig welded it out doors and the wind blew the argon away from the weld.

WOW!!! What a G R E A T Lesson on diesel fuel tanks! I had heard of diesel bug before, and polishing fuel, but this was a wonderfully demonstrated example of what can be hidden in those tanks. I have a tremendous respect for all that you have accomplished on the big boat and this video illustrates what possibly is in the future of unsuspecting boat buyers all over the world. Thank you for sharing this miss-adventure..

Hi guys. I must say that you have a lot of energy, it's easy to lose motivation when everything is going against you, but you two go ahead and solve the problems, I am so impressed. A big hug to you fighters. 👏👍

Great video's guys,... I was lucky to help my father re-build a 47ft, twin diesel motor yacht in the 1970's,.... His boat had been under water, in a fresh water channel in "Bowling Basin" off the Clyde. It sat under-water for 20 years before he bought it. Taking those tanks out was a great call,... but maybe start a tank replacement fund up to let your watchers get involved... NEW TANKS would be an investment in your boats future.

With a sheet metal shear, brake and a tig welder, you can make up new custom tanks with not much trouble....mild steel, stainless, take your pick!

Brilliant well done 👍

I feel your pain and sympathise. We flush 1000 m3 fuel systems here at work and you never know how bad it’s going to be until you get into it.

I will take it back you have done a great job at cleaning them

Simon, you really need to put two switchable fuel filters on each motors supply, this is a safety measure really.

Hi guys, just discovered you and loving the videos! Have a fair bit of experience rebuilding boats and engines myself so fully appreciate the hopes and frustrations. Keep at it guys, you will get there in the end.

Timely 'Ship Happens' fix! Good work guys! Welcome to the dirty hands boating fraternity!

At least, now you know, you know for sure! I can only imagine if that full tank suddenly leaked the whole load into the bilge, and at the wrong time. You did the right thing in pulling the tanks, even if you have to re-manufacture them. You will know for sure that they are correct. Congratulations on doing what the former owner wouldn't do. Thanks for the video. Jon

No wonder those engines were starving for fuel. You did a great job cleaning those tanks.

Excellent video again. Interested to find out what type of repairs you will do! Rust is the enemy!!!

Great videos love them.

The fastest way to clean out a diesel fuel tank is to put some gasoline in it to help clean out any slime and any other debris it helps move it to the filters,but you will still need to actually clean them out manually and wipe them clean.

Great vid again great channel 💪💪💪

Before you said it, I was thinking the same thing at a previous owner and passing the buck on... well done for voicing your opinion.

Great job. I am surprised at the amount of rust. That part is not good. At least now you know the condition of your tanks and fuel. Seriously, Look at H2Out filters for your vent lines to keep the water out of the tanks and getting the nasties back in the tanks. Looking forward to the next video on this project. Cheers.

Great video Gemma & Simon!! Lots of gunk in those tanks , my word!! I was thinking that you might have cut the bottom off the tanks and welded a new bottom piece back on after your cleaning but either way works Eh? I've seen others leave comments about your back Simon so there's no need for me to add my two cents , just don't want to see either of you get hurt.

Great Video !

Such an informative video. I never knew anything like diesel bug was a real thing. Ad equally didn't know that smelling such contaminated diesel fuel could make you sick, either. I have to say you two are not even scared to tackle removal of the tanks even a little bit. Others would have paid to have the tanks removed. But you two are always up to the heavy work challenge. I am not so sure I would put those tanks back in. I would look for replacements and know that issue is totally behind me than... JMHO Thumbs Up!

You know, i have a tendency to take in dogs that need a home for “just a few days” while the owners sort out some illness or issue or whatever…and a few months later, after massive vet bills for teeth or some other issue, hours of training, that dog is so dug into my sofa cushions, big grin on its face, and i realize ive been had again. You two seem to collect boats that do the same thing to you! Ahh well, we love them, right?😅 Edit: ive considered getting a boat, and now that ive seen the condition of the Boutari tanks, i think i will stick with a kayak! Boats are above my paygrade! You two are amazing!

Thanks!

For me it would be new tanks at whatever cost . I understand saving money but know when to say when. much respect for RnR the tanks

G'day Crew.. Diesel is by nature a dirty fuel ,ships clean fuel tanks yearly and remove buckets of sandy tary grit. In your position I would use an internal fuel filter sock to avoid any pick up of grit , after cleaning tanks . Also use a fine filtered funnel to fill tanks . You both do a great job ,being over cautious is a necessity when out at sea . As you said , it's life or death . Best Wishes. Respect....!

I had diesel bug in my trawler yacht 4 years ago and had to have the tanks cleaned which being tech tanks are basically plastic with baffles. Because of the baffles and fact you cannot cut sections out meant difficult to ensure fully clean. Since then have used Marine 16 which prevents diesel bug and no problems since. I understand it is used by the RNLI in the lifeboats so must be good.

Wow, Wow, Wow! What an incredible job! Took out these cute mini baby tanks all by yourself without any help and didn't lose the good mood, not even for a moment. That deserves all my respect!

they say things happen for a reason, if you had never had the issues with the port tank, then you would never have found the holes in the starboard tank, imagine you had tried to do the 100 mile trip, on one tank, and that had developed a leak and dumped 300 litres of diesel into the bilge, that would have left you with a tank that wasnt reliably supplying fuel. big problem. It just proves you were right to haul her out again and sort it out. now have you fond the cause of the vibration, dont forget the final alignment has to be done in the water as once water pressure gets involved the hull can flex slightly and move the engine out of alignment from where it was done on the dock.

The correct way to fix the fuel tank issues, will be the one YOU pick. 👍👍 Keep at it. great update 2x👍

Definitely not a pair of tank arses. Great work, you two