Grand Banks Water Tank Replacement

Grand Banks Water Tank Replacement – Quality Service by Dickerson Harbor Boatyard

If you’re the proud owner of a classic Grand Banks yacht, you understand the importance of maintaining the vessel’s original integrity and functionality. One of the most common issues that older Grand Banks models face is the need to replace aging water tanks. Whether you have a model from the 1970s or a later build, there is a good chance you will eventually have leaking water tanks. In the 1970s, many tanks were made of Monel which lasted a long time. Most leaking Grand Banks water tanks were aluminum which is the most prone to leaks. From 2003 to 2005 tanks were made of stainless steel until economics forced them to return to aluminum. Over time, these tanks can develop leaks or corrosion, compromising the safety and taste of your potable water. Fortunately, Dickerson Harbor boatyard has extensive experience in providing premium Grand Banks water tank replacement services, with over 50 successful installations to date.

Why Replace Your Grand Banks Water Tanks
Why Replace Your Grand Banks Water Tanks

Why Replace Your Grand Banks Water Tanks

Leaking water tanks might not seem as urgent as leaking fuel tanks, but they still pose a significant issue that should be addressed promptly. A leaking tank not only leads to water contamination but can also cause damage to surrounding areas, resulting in costly repairs down the line. When your water tank is compromised, it’s only a matter of time before you start noticing undesirable effects, such as unpleasant odors, discoloration, or even mold growth inside the tank.

Maintaining the integrity of your potable water system is essential for both safety and comfort aboard your vessel. That’s why replacing an aging or corroding water tank is not a matter of “if,” but “when.” By taking proactive steps to replace your tank now, you can avoid more expensive repairs and potential health risks in the future.

These are the old Monel tanks leaking in a 1970’s Grand Banks 42 as seen in 2024. We are replacing them with new stainless-steel tanks.

The Problems with Aluminum Water Tanks

Many older Grand Banks yachts were originally fitted with aluminum water tanks. However, aluminum is not an ideal material for potable water storage. According to the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Standard H-23, aluminum is not recommended for potable water systems. Here’s why:

  1. Chlorine and Floride Corrosion: Most tap water today undergoes chemical treatment to ensure safety, and chlorine is commonly used in this process. Unfortunately, both chlorine and Floride is corrosive to aluminum over time, leading to excessive sediment in the tank bottoms resulting eventually in pitting corrosion.
  2. Aluminum Oxide Contamination: As aluminum corrodes, it produces aluminum oxide, which turns into a white powder that contaminates your water. This not only affects the taste but could also pose health risks, although the exact implications are still not fully understood.
  3. Undesirable Taste and Odor: Corrosion and chemical reactions inside an aluminum tank often lead to water that smells or tastes unpleasant. This compromises the quality of your potable water, making it less enjoyable and potentially unsafe to consume.

Given these issues, it’s no surprise that aluminum is no longer the preferred material for water tanks. Today, the most reliable choices are FDA-approved plastics or high-grade 300-series stainless steel.

Our Preferred Replacement Options: Stainless Steel vs. HDPE Plastic

At Dickerson Harbor boatyard, we specialize in offering water tank replacements that provide long-lasting, high-quality solutions tailored to your Grand Banks yacht. We primarily recommend two options: stainless steel and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) plastic.

Stainless Steel Tanks – Our Top Choice

Stainless steel water tanks are our preferred replacement option due to their durability, resistance to corrosion, and overall quality. Here’s why stainless steel is the ideal choice:

  • Local Manufacturing: We work with local manufacturers who produce high-quality, custom stainless steel tanks. This means we can offer a superior product with shorter lead times and reduced transportation costs compared to sourcing HDPE tanks from distant manufacturers.
  • Customization: Stainless steel is easier to customize to the exact specifications and dimensions of your Grand Banks yacht. This ensures a perfect fit and maximizes available storage space without compromising structural integrity.
  • Longevity: Unlike aluminum or other materials, stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and can last for decades with minimal maintenance, providing you with a reliable, long-term solution.
HDPE Plastic Tanks – A Viable Alternative

HDPE Plastic Tanks – A Viable Alternative

HDPE plastic tanks are another popular option for water tank replacement, and they’re often used due to their FDA-approved, food-grade quality. However, there are a few downsides:

  • Transportation Costs: The few quality manufacturers of custom HDPE plastic tanks are often located far away, leading to higher transportation costs. When all factors are considered, stainless steel tanks end up being more cost-effective, especially given the longer lifespan and reduced need for future replacements.
  • Customization Limitations: While HDPE tanks can be customized to some extent, they lack the precision and flexibility that stainless steel offers, making stainless steel the superior choice for a perfect fit.

For any Grand Banks water tank replacement project, always save the fill hardware since it’s hard to replace and is generally well made to last. Using these in the stainless fabrication can make that part of the job simple and less costly.

The Dickerson Harbor Boatyard Difference

With over 50 Grand Banks water tank replacement projects under our belt, Dickerson Harbor boatyard offers unmatched expertise and experience in handling these jobs. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Experienced Technicians: Our team of skilled professionals knows the ins and outs of Grand Banks yachts, ensuring that your new water tank is installed with precision and care.
  • Custom Fit: We take the time to measure and customize your tank, ensuring it fits perfectly within the available space. This minimizes installation time and ensures optimal performance.
  • Cost Savings: By manufacturing tanks locally, we’re able to keep costs down without sacrificing quality. This means you get a premium water tank replacement at a competitive price, saving you money both now and in the future.
  • Zero Issues: We stand behind our work, and our stainless steel water tanks are designed to provide trouble-free service for years to come. With proper installation and routine maintenance, you can enjoy clean, safe water on your Grand Banks yacht without worry.

Get Started with Your Grand Banks Water Tank Replacement Today

Don’t let an old, corroding water tank ruin your boating experience. Trust the experts at Dickerson Harbor boatyard to provide a seamless, high-quality water tank replacement that will keep your Grand Banks yacht in top condition. Whether you prefer the longevity and reliability of stainless steel or the lightweight, food-grade quality of HDPE plastic, we have the expertise to deliver a solution that suits your needs and budget.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection or to discuss your options. Let’s keep your Grand Banks yacht running smoothly with a water tank replacement that’s built to last.

CALL NOW – 410-822-8556

for more information and talk to our owner John Shannahan