Replacing Atomic 4 gas tank on Pearson 30, how complicated?

[Sailon1]

For sales is a 43 gallon aluminum gas tan:$100, exterior looks in good shape.

I would be replacing the 20 gallon tank and doubling my range,

Considerations include:

inspecting interior of new tank? How is this done?

installation-doesn't look too complicated (famous last words?)

tank is dated 1985

Your suggestions, as always, are appreciated.

[Chuck34]

I hear you about doubling your range, but question for you...do you really do that much motoring? I had 2 sailboats over a period of 11 years and never used more than 20 gallons in one season. Usually in the 15 gallon range. Granted, both my boats had diesel, so I did get extra range, but even if I did have gas, my heaviest usage would have been in the 25-30 gallon range.

[Sailon1]

Thanks for the reply. For now, my cruising range is not an issue-
but if I do want to venture out in the future, I'm also looking at options as
far as keeping batteries charged--solar, larger battery bank and alternator,
etc.

[Orion Jim]

Inspecting the tank would best be accomplished by a local professional tank manufacturer. They can pressure test it and perhaps clean and flush it. Personally for the trouble it can lead to if it leaks or fails shortly after it being tested, I’d go with a new tank.
Doubling the capacity of your old tank would lead to trim issues even if it were to fit in the old space. 23 gallons of extra gas weighs 139.35 pounds. Combined with your old tanks capacity the new weight would be 268.74 pounds. That’s a considerable amount of weight in a Pearson 30.

[psk125]

If it aint broke... You can carry gas in jerrycans on deck if you need to extend your range that much. A lot easier & cheaper than pulling out the original tank and installing a new one. How long is the A-4 going to keep running anyway? When it goes you'll need to replace more than just a tank.