Hi Vince, we also own a Whitby 42, and have had the same problem with the
main fuel tank. It is a bear to clean up.

Once you get "down" to main filler hose, there is a 12x12 inch inspection
hatch, attached with about 14 slotted screws.
-remove the fill sender gauge assembly ( about 6 screws in the middle of
the inspection hatch).
-remove the inspection hatch.
-(optional step) with the fuel tank around 1/3 to 1/2 full. Jury rigged 2'
long copper tube attached to the end of a air compressor. Use the air to
blow out grunge around the sides of the tank and as much of the anti slosh
plates as possible. Some fancy bends will help get around the corners. Its
not a great solution, but it works.
-pump out the tank into a drum or jerry cans. Complete the pumping by
using a small copper tube attached to a small hand pump to get all of the
crud on the bottom.
-make new gaskets for the inspection hatch and fill sender unit. Get good
quality, thick gasket material from an auto supply store. Use the hatch as
a template. I have used a socket and an hammer to make the screw holes.
-use lock tight on the screws when replacing them. I am not sure why they
can get loose, but they can.
-replace the rubber o-ring on your filler cap.
-you may be able to reuse the old fuel by filtering it before putting
back in.


-We only use the main tank on very long trips. Our fuel system is rigged
with a transfer pump, when we need fuel from the main tank, we transfer it
through a filter to the port or starboard tank.

Good luck.







Vince LoRusso wrote:

I bought a Whitby 42 last June and she has water, fuel and dirt in the
center fuel tank. This tank is located in the keel with an access
plate almost under the motor. I sucked out everything that I could
but the tank is fare from usable.

Anyone have any suggestions how to clean up and seal off this tank so
I can use it?

Thanks,

Vince LoRusso of S/V Horizons



Vince LoRusso wrote:

I bought a Whitby 42 last June and she has water, fuel and dirt in the
center fuel tank. This tank is located in the keel with an access
plate almost under the motor. I sucked out everything that I could
but the tank is fare from usable.

Anyone have any suggestions how to clean up and seal off this tank so
I can use it?

Thanks,

Vince LoRusso of S/V Horizons