Stratos gas tank brackets

Why does Stratos install their gas tanks brackets with such small screws? I was installing my new lights from Blue Water and I had to take out my two back compartments. When I did I found one of my gas tank brackets that holds the tank down completely missing and the other was not even holding the tank, it is not bent and the bottom screws have not moved. It looks like it came from the factory this way. So now I have to take my live wells out so I can re-attach both brackets. http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/mad.gif

http://www.axcessmypics.com/photos/p...0cac887fac.jpg

if you have to remove the livewells there is something wrong. the brackets are yes weak and do bend but then you put 50 gallons of fuel in a tank and then drive around with it it will move hence the bending. they ( not stratos but others) used to anchor the tanks down with a metal strap especially the metal tanks of old but to replace a tank then ment removing the top cap and a real pain in the rump. the new plastic tanks are lighter and more durable ( to a degree) and they also are able to breathe. If you are goint to take your livewells out and the tanks you can put a stop ( like a baseboard on a wall) to help hold it in place or even do a metal strap around it. I my self would let the tank empty ( go fishing) and then come home and slide it back and rebend ( gently) the peice that hooks in the tank and then rescrew into the floor. this from a guy that replaced his 2-25 gallon tanks to make 1- 50 gallon tank http://www.bassboatcentral.com/boardstuff2/beers.gif

I can not get my hand in between the live well and tank to adjust the one bracket or to put the other one back in. You did give me an idea, I wonder if I get two L-brackets and butt them against the tank and then screw them to the floor if they would hold the tank in place?

there is a reason got the "s" shaped brackets if you notice it is the notch they are " supposed to hold the tank in place but with 50 gallons or whatever amount you have it is a moveable ( sloshing ) material and will not stay in one position do NOT try to rebend those back as they are very brittle and will repeat Will snap. I have thought of maybe seeing your app of placing a board down there that is wide enough to slid in and hold it in place. I do not think that L shaped brackets will hold it in as one side will usually be shorter and they also are not made very sturdy for a boat. BRP and see if they will send you new ones or if they have a fix, your boat should and may still be under a lifetime warranty, also maybe contact C +O and see if they have something to help. sorry I could not be more help to ya.