Portable Fuel Containers

[TresGatos]

I am curious about using portable fuel containers while underway. They appear to have become increasingly difficult to use with the anti-spill feature and low fuel rates especially in California (CARB - California Air Resources Board). In an emergency I may need to refuel at sea standing on my swim platform. This would seem to be a very slow, awkward and potential dangerous procedure in many sea conditions. Not withstanding adding internal fuel tanks, any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.<br /><br />TresGatos

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

So...what's your question? Sure, the new tree hugger influenced cans are a pain, but that's about your only choice. You might want to buy a military surplus jerry can, although that's kind of heavy to keep in a boat. You could also look for some kind of go-kart/motorcycle/jet ski can...they're probably quicker to pour than the new Blitz CARB approved BS.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

Reading this - I'm curious also.<br /><br />Here on the rock I live on, we don't have such restrictions. We buy a can, fill it, and pour it. Big spout - no problems.<br /><br />The California thing - is it to prevent pollution or to 'aid' safety in use?<br /><br />You could always get a buddy to bring back a European style container.

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

Originally posted by stillfishing:<br /> Reading this - I'm curious also.<br /><br />Here on the rock I live on, we don't have such restrictions. We buy a can, fill it, and pour it. Big spout - no problems.<br /><br />The California thing - is it to prevent pollution or to 'aid' safety in use?<br /><br />You could always get a buddy to bring back a European style container.

I'm pretty sure you can fill and pour gas into whatever you want here, but they're only allowed to sell certain gas cans. I think commu-fornia is the only state that only allows certain cans, but the major manufacturers make it easy on themselves and sell the same thing everywhere.<br /><br />One of these would probably work well for you:<br /> http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=4520801918&category=6755

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

I'm confused. Does this mean that in Cal. you can fill a can but then you can't get the gas out? That's definitely safe.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

Re Jerrycans:<br /><br />I used to keep an original jerrycan on board, but I hated the metal hitting the fibreglass - scratches. Even when I lashed it tight, it marked the glass finish. So I've bought a spare five gallon plastic can with a pour-spout. I use a pre-cut length of wide diameter hose when I need to refill on the water. Seems to work without much spillage, and it's quick.<br /><br />Doesn't attract fish, though.

 

[Captn Dave]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

For transferring fuel, use one of those siphoning hoses. They're usually a clear hose, I think maybe 1/2 inch diameter, with a check valve on one end. Place the container higher than the tank you're filling, put the check valve end in the container, move it up and down a couple of times, and the siphon is started. They work great.

 

[ED21]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

Can't you buy one mail order/internet to fit your needs?

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

Originally posted by BoatBuoy:<br /> I'm confused. Does this mean that in Cal. you can fill a can but then you can't get the gas out? That's definitely safe.

It means if your in CA you can't run down to the store and buy a good gas can, the only thing you can legally buy is a non venting type that barely drips gas out. You can; however, fill whatever kind of gas can you have already at a gas station.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

Buy their stupid can if you must, then put your own vent in it.

 

[tfjrc2]

Re: Portable Fuel Containers

They are way expensive, but there are 30 gal wheeled, plastic gas cans with hose.<br />The hose comes out the bottom, and they are in all the Overton's, West Marine, etc. catalogs. I'm waiting for a garage sale though because of the price tag.<br />Also have used the siphon things, and they work OK, but kind of slow. With the siphon thing, you would not need a vent.<br />Just a thought...