PSA for inboard gas owners.....

[Lou C]

Gas fumes are a significant hazard for gas inboard owners. In addition to sniffing before starting up, proper fueling practices and use of the blower, it's a good idea to have a gas vapor detector installed on your boat. I went one step further, I got a hand held combustible gas detector (detects gasoline, propane, etc) to check all around the gas tank, around the carb, fuel pump and fuel lines. I tested it with a gas can and a gas stove and this thing WORKS! Lucky I found no leaks in the boat, the alu tank is 38 years old!
Especially useful if you have done work on the fuel system recently like a new tank, fuel hoses, pump or carb rebuild.... remember fuel vapors are heavier than air, check way down at the bottom of the bilge.

 

[airshot]

Not only inboards, many outboards have built-in fuel tanks, so do not overlook the possibility of a leak there. With many enclosed below the floor or under a gunwale, trapped vapors can still be a major issue !

 

[Lou C]

Certainly true.
I think a good idea is for the fuel tank coffin so to speak to have vents on the front and rear bulkheads, that helps also with drying out any moisture.

 

[airshot]

Certainly true.
I think a good idea is for the fuel tank coffin so to speak to have vents on the front and rear bulkheads, that helps also with drying out any moisture.

Tell that to the mfgrs....

 

[Lou C]

When/If I have to replace the tank, I plan on adding them, and re-glassing the coffin.