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Molded fiberglass fuel tanks?

Bartman

Defender of the Noob!
Hey folks,

Was just wondering what tricks there are to making a custom molded fiberglass fuel tank. Is the fiberglass resin naturally resistant to the fuel or does it have to be sealed after it's made?

I'd like to get a tank to mount right on the CG for my Laser but there's a little over an inch and a half between the bottom of the fuselage and the bottom of the wing tube so I'd need a relatively flat and wide tank to slide in there.

Thanks!
 

Bartman

Defender of the Noob!
Just figured I'd look around to see what I've got on the shelf and found this! Woohoo! 16oz and fits perfect!

IMG_20160716_142828672.jpg
IMG_20160716_142822162.jpg


But, for the heck of it, how would I make a fiberglass tank if I wanted to?
 

jhelber08

70cc twin V2
If I'm not mistaken the jet guys use kevlar tanks, never seen a fiber glass one. You would have to make a mold and glue two halves together. Either that or fashion a disappearing plug that you can fiberglass over and then use gas to dissolve (something like foam).
 

Alky6

150cc
Hey folks,

Was just wondering what tricks there are to making a custom molded fiberglass fuel tank. Is the fiberglass resin naturally resistant to the fuel or does it have to be sealed after it's made?

I'd like to get a tank to mount right on the CG for my Laser but there's a little over an inch and a half between the bottom of the fuselage and the bottom of the wing tube so I'd need a relatively flat and wide tank to slide in there.

Thanks!
You need to use a marine grade (or better) epoxy to make a tank. Even then, check for compatibility with the fuel. I believe the gas will soften the fiberglass resin with extended contact.
 

HRRC Flyer

GSN Sponsor Tier 1
Hey @Bartman,

I may be totally wrong about this (it has been known to happen on occassion. . . . . :laughing:), but I think you would have fuel delivery problems with a tank that is so flat once you have used part of the fuel in the tank.
 
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