Fuel collector tank change tips needed

[beeryboats]

Hi guys. I've burned these forums up asking for help bringing an old Mod IV back to life. My main concern, besides the engine, is the fuel system. I assume the wing tanks are dry as the collector tank behind the seat is only 1/3 full. But what is in that tank is very, very dark. I see there is a new aluminum tank available from Kitfox. Is it a must have if I'm going to remove the old tank for inspection anyway? I've read that the old tanks leaked a bit making a stink.
Thanks,
Jay

[jamesmil]

the aluminum tank is standard now and does not weep, fixed our poly tank twice before replacing it with the aluminum tank. well worth it.

[jiott]

I agree it is worth it.

Jim

[WISDAN]

When you say the poly tank weeps is it the fittings or the tank. So far I have had no problems but one fitting needed to be re-sealed after the first 30 hours. I now have 90 hours and so far no issues with smells or leaks. I will go with aluminum if I do have problems though.

[airlina]

Dan I have a 10 year old Series 5 that had the original poly tank. I always had a persistent 100LL smell in the cockpit when I first would open the door. Early on I thought it must be a leak somewhere , but never could find one and just came to realize that the smell must be permeating through the tank.On my last condition inspection, I replaced the poly tank with the aluminum one and the smell has gone away. Bruce N199CL

[WISDAN]

Thanks for the info Bruce, I plan on replacing my fuel hoses at the condition inspection in May and will probably up grade to an aluminum header tank at that time.