Adding 2nd fuel tank under console with battery

[w2much]

I have a 21' Striper center console with a 150HP. Fuel tank is only 48 gallons. Added another 20 gallon tank under the center console. I also have a second battery under the console which is right up against the new 20 gal tank. Rather not have to move the second battery to the stern due to weight distribution and space. Is this a legal setup? Seems that having the electrical and fuel in the same small space may be an issue. Live and boat in CA. Thanks

 

[KellyC]

Re: Adding 2nd fuel tank under console with battery

I am sorry but I think that you are just asking to have a fire in the very least or at the worst and explosion. Yes I am new to boating but was a fire fighter for 13 years and have seen my fair share of similar accidents. I would move one or the other if I was you before someone gets hurt or worse. Just my .02

 

[Bob's Garage]

Re: Adding 2nd fuel tank under console with battery

I have to agree with KellyC, you are operating a potential bomb. Batteries spark, produce hydrogen gas, gas tanks leak both fuel and fumes.

I would relocate the fuel tank to location where there is less likely hood of a spark. Below deck would be best but probably out of the question.

Is your's the model with the head in the console? Perhaps you could cut an access hole, with a corresponding hatch cover, and put the tanks down there. The fumes are heavier than air and would drop down into the bilge, as does your original tank's fumes, to be vented or diluted by fresh air.

Just a thought.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Adding 2nd fuel tank under console with battery

Is the console vented? Batteries and fuel tanks may be next to each other, w/o issue, provided the gas fumes and hydrogen fumes do not build up.

I/O and inboard boats have the engine, battery and fuel tank together in a compartment. A blower is required to remove all fumes.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Adding 2nd fuel tank under console with battery

while lots of boats by necessity have the fuel, fuel lines/filters, batteries and electrical pumps near each other, you have two "home made" devices in a compartment not designed for them, together. I'd move one out. On a 21' boat, one battery isn't going to make any difference on weight.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Adding 2nd fuel tank under console with battery

You are legal having the battery and gas tank in the same enclosure. Just be sure that no fuel line runs over/above the battery, as that is a violation of CG regs.

It would be wise to have the battery in a battery box with lid to prevent accidental shorting across posts that can cause explosion. Add ventilation if its not there now.