Kicker gas tank in I/O compartment (kaboom?)

[MarkC]

I have an I/O and I'm looking at ideas for a kicker. I can get a hardly-used Nissan 8hp for $400. It's two-cycle, so I'd need to use a separate fuel source for it. There's room in the engine compartment, but I kind of suspect it's not smart to put a vented fuel tank in there, right?<br /><br />There's also a newish Honda 4-stroke 5hp around for about $650, but that's kinda stretching the budget...<br /><br />Thanks for any advice,<br /><br />Mark

 

[12Footer]

Re: Kicker gas tank in I/O compartment (kaboom?)

Gas fumes in an enclosed marine engine compartment should be considered "allways present", regardless of the kicker tank or not. <br />Your engine compartment should have a blower in it. Inboards and I/Os should have had that blower fan running 1 minute before attempting to start the boat's engine...Allways. Failing this vital step is the number one cause of explosions on small boats and yachts. I said all that to say, I still would find a small tank that would fit outside the I/O doghouse. But, failing that, go for it. Just observe USCG regs.

 

[12Footer]

Re: Kicker gas tank in I/O compartment (kaboom?)

BTW, that's a great price!!!

 

[MarkC]

Re: Kicker gas tank in I/O compartment (kaboom?)

Thanks, 12Footer. Kinda what I'd thought---won't increase the chance of an explosion much if I am careful, but might make an explosion much worse, I suppose. I'll think carefully about whether an extra $250 for a 4-stroke with 3 fewer HP is worth it...