install a water tank access hatch/cover

[gmberkley]

I'm thinking of installing an access to my water storage tank, that way I can clean it, and get the water out of it easily for winterization, anyone have any thoughts/ideas.

thanks

[Pitou]

I'm assuming that the tank area or areas that you wish to install the ports are flat and level. It's been a while since I've had my 28, but as I recall the plastic tank is pretty rigid, but with some flex. Is this correct?

If it has any flex to it, installing a typical rigid Beckson access hatch such as the Beckson DP80-W Screw-Out Deck Plate you will need to somehow have a backing plate from within or else I would drill and tap each screw hole through the plastic tank and most likely do this regardless using stainless hardware with a flat washer, lock washer and nut secured from inside the tank. Don't count on self tapping screws.

LifeSeal would be a good sealant for this application as it is compatible with plastics and retains some elasticity when cured.

[gmberkley]

yes, Kevin, the tank is flat on the top, and doesn't support any weight at all. It sits well below the 3/4" wood access panel.
I like the idea of nuts, bolts , washers and lock washers, 316 ss ordered the hatch, will be delivered by Thursday, another project to add for the weekend.

thanks Kevin.

[Norseman]

i drilled into the plastic tank to instal a sender for the gauge.
The tank was surprisingly thick and sturdy, I had no problems using self tapping screws. (guessing 3/8" or perhaps 1/2" thick plastic.)

[Pitou]

i drilled into the plastic tank to instal a sender for the gauge.
The tank was surprisingly thick and sturdy, I had no problems using self tapping screws. (guessing 3/8" or perhaps 1/2" thick plastic.)

With the "one and done" nature of a sending unit, self tapping screws are certainly adequate. With the nature of an inspection port's continual use, I would still thread the holes with a tap and finish securing them with washers and a nut, but depending upon the thickness of the 2006 model year plastic water tank, self tapping with washers and nuts could be over engineered.