How to run twin 5.0s from portable outboard tanks

[crazy charlie]

Hi Guys!! I am needing some experienced advice.hopefully someone has done this before. Both fuel tanks developed leaks on my Regal 280 1988. WAAAAAAY to big of a job to replace .I want to drain tanks and run from an outboard tank. My boat just needs to idle to my marina where it sits until it comes home in October. I have a fuel valve which switches tank options and I am assuming I can disconnect it from the tank and splice in the outboard tank. I had someone suggest going directly to fuel pump which would require 2 portable tanks.If anyone has done this I appreciate any advice. Thanks in advance Charlie

 

[Scott Danforth]

you will most likely need two fuel tanks.

hook the outlet of tank 1 to the inlet of engine 1 fuel filter
hook the outlet of tank 2 to the inlet of engine 2 fuel filter

or get a t-fitting and hook outlet of fuel tank to inlet of engine fuel filters.

I would highly recommend getting the tanks replaced. may be a big job, but if there are leaks, then there are EXPLOSIVE fuel vapors

 

[crazy charlie]

Thanks and yes I want to do this safely.1 tank is bone dry and the other tank will be drained today .I will take a pic and post it , my fuel valve may act as the t fitting you mentioned.

 

[alldodge]

Did it with a single engine cruiser, connected a 6 Gal portable to the motor and tank is above the deck secured to deck.

We did drain the tank and aired it out before using the portable tank

 

[Lou C]

I did that for testing last year, I would also suggest putting a shut off valve on the fuel line between the outboard tank and the engine fuel pump, just in case. Make sure the lines are safely routed as well.

 

[Lou C]

Also, I picked up a portable combustible gas/vapor meter, these can be used to check for gas vapor fumes, as well as propane and nat gas. You might want to check around carefully before doing anything.

 

[airshot]

Empty tanks can be more dangerous than a full tank....more room for the vapors, which is even more dangerous !

 

[crazy charlie]

I am just hoping that enough fuel comes from the single outboard portable tank to run both 5.0s at idle or a touch above idle. I know I can do a separate tank to each but its gonna be easier and cleaner if I can run from 1 tank .Charlie

 

[alldodge]

I am just hoping that enough fuel comes from the single outboard portable tank to run both 5.0s at idle or a touch above idle. I know I can do a separate tank to each but its gonna be easier and cleaner if I can run from 1 tank .Charlie

Portable tank will supply all the fuel a 5.0 will need even at WOT

 

[crazy charlie]

Portable tank will supply all the fuel a 5.0 will need even at WOT

THANKS but Even ifs twins? I have 2 .. I was going to use an Evinrude connector with 2 prongs on the tank but I assume a threaded barb will provide more fuel..??

 

[Lou C]

I thought about this as well when I was doing my testing last summer. I figured even running at 3500 rpm on plane I’d be using approx 5-7 gallons per hr. The outboard tank I had was 6 gallons so I brought another 2.5 gallon gas can so I could do enough testing to prove to myself that my problem was bad gas in the main tank. At idle I think you’d be able to run both but the question is for how long do you need to do it?

 

[alldodge]

THANKS but Even ifs twins? I have 2 .. I was going to use an Evinrude connector with 2 prongs on the tank but I assume a threaded barb will provide more fuel..??

I wouldn't run both off one tank unless your just trolling, don't see the fuel line being large enough

 

[Lou C]

2 six gallon tanks should be fine, I was able to run my 4.3 at WOT with that West Marine tank in my pic with no problems.
Are you getting the OE tank replaced? If so check out Rob at Raybo Marine on Montauk Highway in Lindenhurst. Does great work.

 

[Grub54891]

No two fuel pumps are “ exactly” the same. One might be slightly stronger than the other. That will cause one engine to starve for fuel. You will need two tanks, or a tank with two separate fittings.