black tank overhaul

[Skywriter]

1968 22' Safari Twin. Gotten to the point where I need to fix/replace the back tank before I do anything else. Any ideas on where to find a replacement that will fit the original space or how to do a major fix up of the old. Tank seems solid but connections are cracked and not going to hold and I think some newer "connections" might be the way to go. There is plumbing and then there are Airstream systems. I'm starting at ground zero. From what I've read so far it sounds like this may take some time and creative juice.
What have you all come up with? I'm trying to keep things fairly close to the same position as the original but it is a remodel not a restoration.
Skywriter

[Jack McAllis]

Sky,
Your tank is exactly like mine. I replaced the drain valve (still available) and applied 3M panel bonding epoxy to a crack in the area near the drain. Then filled the tank with water and let it sit for several hours to be sure there were no leaks...it was ok and I've reinstalled it. This is documented with photos on my "Jack's 67 Safari" thread. If you have doubts about reusing your tank, Inland RV has a repro tank on their website. Good luck...
Jack

[purman]

My tank on my 68' was in bad shape, I got the new fiberglass one from Inland RV. I love it. Will never have a problem. and it had a flange around the top that I drilled holes in and screwed it to the floor for extra support.

[dibAL]

Skywriter, I have a 66 Safari. Replaced the black tank with a divided gray/black tank of stainless steel (got the material for free-justified the weight increase by relocating the battery to the front). Tank filled the entire bay occupied by the original black tank. Wish I had made the gray/black ratio 60/40. Should I do it again, I'll have a custom plastic tank made. For my purposes, definitely needed some gray water capacity.

[Skywriter]

Thanks dibAL, Jason, and Jack. I think I'll try to replace my gate or slide valve. Where it attaches to the tank needs to be reinforced since the four bolt/screw anchor blocks are cracked or chunks gone. The tank seems solid. I'll order new parts and replace as needed. I'll also try the 3M panel bonding epoxy. The floor will go on the trailer as soon as I get the tank ready. And then the shell. Getting anxious. Sure do appreciate all you people and the help.
Skywriter