I am hoping that you all will let a power boater into your group as I have a question about black iron fuel tanks that are on a 1988 Hans Christian 45’ Trawler that I am looking at.
I read your archives about black iron tanks and have thoroughly Googled the Web about them. I have found that there is no clear modern definition as to what “black Iron” actually means. Most sources state that it is a misnomer for mild steel. A metallurgy text I found from the early 1900s defined it as low carbon steel. I have also found several citations stating that the tanks could not be true black iron because it is too hard to weld into a tank as large as we see in our boats.
The key issue is, of course, corrosion resistance. The HC 45’ independence Trawler I am looking at is 19 years old and has four of these tanks. A leaking fuel tank is a serious and costly issue to deal with.
I would appreciate hearing from HC 45’ Trawler owners out there regarding their experience with the tanks as well as from any other HC owners who have them.
Thanks very much.
Harlen