Posted by Bergeron (mbergero@…>)
I was hoping to get some pics out to illustrate the process we used, but I am afraid that they were lost in the last viral illness our computer had to deal with. Luckily almost everything else was backed up. Since “baby” is under cover at the moment, I’ll have to wait until the spring thaw to get new pics.
In any case, we replaced the port horizontal propane tank on our F-32 with a new 11# horizontal aluminum tank. The space in the coaming locker is more than enough to accommodate the tank, coming in only about 1/2" short (height) of being able to fit a 20# tank. The problem is getting it in. We had a panel cut out of the inboard side of the locker, the edges finished, and put back in place with hinges so that it opens down onto the seat. The top of this hinged panel is the original inboard flange of the original opening to the locker. We replaced the ring handle with a draw latch that holds it all together nicely. Everything exterior was finished with gel coat. The bottom corners of the new panel are rounded. It really looks like it belongs there! Now, we cheated and had a 'glass guy do most of the work for us (I just couldn’t cut it, literally) to the tune of about $850, but anyone with any fiberglass experience should be able to do this. It is just a matter of making a U shaped cut, glassing the space between the double wall, finishing and putting it all back together.
I also replaced the hose and regulator/valve assembly. The tank is held in place by epoxying studs onto the floor of the locker that the tank is lowered onto.
As our cruising life expands I have plans to do the same to the starboard side for a secondary tank. I will have pics available in the spring for anyone interested.
----- Original Message -----
From: George Fisher
To: freedomyachts2003@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, January 06, 2005 9:23 AM
Subject: Re: [freedomyachts2003] Mild Rant of Exasperation with No Technical Information
I am interested in the details. If you prefer, you can send it to me direct at Georgefisher@…Bergeron <mbergero@…> wrote:
No. I’m in Maine. We’re pretty practical up here. It’s nice to see sailing talk back on the site.
By the way, I have an alternative solution to the old horozontal propane tanks in the F32s and others(?). It took some resin and reason but it was quite successful. I opened up the coaming and installed a new 11# horozontal OPD tank. Details if anyone is interested.
----- Original Message -----
From: Larry Strouse
To: freedomyachts2003@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, December 30, 2004 9:18 PM
Subject: RE: [freedomyachts2003] Mild Rant of Exasperation with No Technical Information
Bergeron:
Are you one of the Louisiana Bergerons?
I agree with KISS
Capt. Larry E. Strouse
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