newmexicogal
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Post by newmexicogal on Nov 27, 2013 19:03:23 GMT -8
OK, this is a dumb question and I'm embarrassed to ask it, but here goes. I have been so focused on replacing exterior dry rot and getting the Compact put back together before bad weather sets in that I've not clearly thought through next steps and internal processes. I pulled off her back skin and replaced her paneling. I don't yet have the rear skin reinstalled. That's next. After I rebuilt the paneling it occurred to me that I've not explored her water system at all, although I did have clear access to what I believe is her fresh water tank. (Again, here's part of my embarrassment -- I don't know this for sure). My question is this: am I missing an opportunity to replace this tank -- do people generally do this? The thought of drinking water coming out of a 50-year-old metal tank is a little off-putting, however I don't know anything about it yet. If the forum thinks I should replace her tank, should I take off her new paneling and do this now while the tank is readily accessible? Or, do people simply remove the bench if it needs to come out down the road? Thanks in advance for any insight and for your patience with dumb questions.   |
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Ten
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70 Shasta 16SC + 1964 Airflyte
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Post by Ten on Nov 27, 2013 20:17:28 GMT -8
Short answers.... Yes, that would be the fresh-water holding tank. Yes, I would recommend replacing it. The fact is that you have no idea where it has been, and I would not trust what anyone might have put through it, nor how well it was maintained over 50 years.
There are resources available to find similarly-sized plastic tanks, even some that are set up with 12-V pumps to replace the hand-pump idea. Another option might be using 5-gallon jugs and eliminate the tank altogether. (It would be possible to use a hand-pump with a 5-gal jug.)
I would think that removing the bench top will be lots easier than back-tracking your work. These have been replaced before without the complete teardown. I can't say for certain, but I am not so sure that is an original tank, and in that case, its removal should be easier than if it were.
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txoil
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1960 Shasta Deluxe 19
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Post by txoil on Nov 28, 2013 6:57:24 GMT -8
ABSOLUTELY replace that tank. If it were stainless and you could do a complete inspection, then it might be ok, but painted steel...replacing would be better. Remove the top of the bench and you will get access to work on it. There are manufacturers of poly tanks that will make tanks in different sizes so you can get a really close fit, and you will know that your tank is sound and clean. Also, if you need to run new plumbing lines, I highly recommend using PEX lines and Sharkbite fittings--very easy to use and available at most hardware stores.
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smccusk
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63 SC Restoration in progress
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1963 Shasta SC
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Post by smccusk on Nov 28, 2013 16:55:02 GMT -8
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Post by vikx on Nov 28, 2013 21:04:17 GMT -8
It looks like your tank is ABS plastic, not steel. If that is the case, I would not replace it. New ones are identical in size and shape. You can bleach the tank for 24 hours and flush to insure it is clean.
That being said, I never drink out of a water tank, even brand new. We use the tank water for washing. It's so easy to bring along a gallon of water or two for drinking...
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