[C320-list] Replacing the fuel sender unit in tank

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Jeffrey Kapec via C320-list

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Sep 3, 2025, 6:29:41 PM (4 days ago) Sep 3
to c320...@lists.catalina320.com, Jeffrey Kapec
Hello All!

Many years ago I had to replace the fuel tank in our 320. It seems that
electrolysis had compromised the weld seams and lo and behold one fall
morning as I approached the boat I could smell diesel fuel. I called
Catalina in California and explained the problem and the next thing I know
I am talking directly to Frank Butler. He wanted to know specifics about
the issue and guided me on how to remove the tank and replace it. So I
have had experience. Now, 15 years later, the new sender unit I put in the
new tank at that time is misreading. I did all the diagnostics so I am
confident it's the sender and not the gauge. My question. Has anyone
replaced their sender unit without pulling the tank out? If so, what did
you learn and what would you not do? Experience counts. Thank you all in
advance :)

Jeff Kapec
Petite Suite Hull 718
--

Jeffrey Kapec

*Tanaka Kapec Design Group*

11 Brookfield St. Norwalk, CT 06851

203.846.3666


www.tkdg.com

john--- via C320-list

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Sep 3, 2025, 6:44:19 PM (4 days ago) Sep 3
to C320...@catalina320.com, c320...@lists.catalina320.com, johnc...@gmail.com, Jeffrey Kapec
I have the same question and will follow.

I have the added complication of my HVAC unit being on top of the fuel tank

John
2007 C320MKII
Hull #1118
Lake Guntersville, AL
www.tkdg.com <http://www.tkdg.com>

Ferris Wills via C320-list

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Sep 3, 2025, 8:07:14 PM (4 days ago) Sep 3
to C320...@catalina320.com, Ferris Wills, c320...@lists.catalina320.com, Jeffrey Kapec
Hi,

I replaced the fuel sender “in situ” on Argo(505) following a write up by Jeff Hare on the c320.org site. Not that difficult a job, but it did require a fair bit of time spent jammed into the port lazerette.

Advil helped 😂

Ferris


Typos by iPhone

> On Sep 3, 2025, at 3:29 PM, Jeffrey Kapec via C320-list <c320...@lists.catalina320.com> wrote:
>
> Hello All!

Greg Flanagan via C320-list

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Sep 3, 2025, 11:02:05 PM (4 days ago) Sep 3
to C320...@catalina320.com, Greg Flanagan
On my boat the sender is mounted on the inspection port at the top of the tank. It easily comes out and off with the wiring disconnect.

Greg
Hoop Dancer #1076
Sidney, BC

> On Sep 3, 2025, at 3:28 PM, Jeffrey Kapec via C320-list <c320...@lists.catalina320.com> wrote:
>
> Hello All!

Charles Holbrook via C320-list

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Sep 4, 2025, 10:41:57 AM (3 days ago) Sep 4
to c320...@catalina320.com, Charles Holbrook
Jeffrey:
I relaced the sending unit gasket by crawling through the port side access and squeezing behind the rudder post.  My AC unit is above the fuel tank but I did not need to remove it.  It is a tight fit but it can be done.as long as you are not claustrophobic and are small enough.  Do not do this project alone in case you need someone to hand you a tool.  
Charlie   
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