2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

merc20076

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 9, 2009
Messages
156
This year, it's time to get rid of the metal gas tanks for a brand new 6.6 gallon plastic tank. I have my main old 40 HP Lark 8 + a 4.5HP for trolling that I use alot. Is it possible to have only 1 tank for both o/b and do a gas line with a splitter? 2tanks + the battery makes to much weight at the back of the boat and the boat has a hard time to keep a moderate cruising speed. Could this cause some air in gas lines?
 

etracer68

Ensign
Joined
Oct 11, 2009
Messages
906
Re: 2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

I do it, but I use a filter/water separator, with shut off valves on each line at the outlets.
 

tmcalavy

Rear Admiral
Joined
Aug 29, 2001
Messages
4,005
Re: 2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

I run two 57 OMC Big Twin 35's on the back of my boat...9 gal. fuel tank in the front, under the bowskirt to balance the weight. Fuel line with bulb close to dash runs from this tank down under the port gunwhale to the splashwell, simple brass T splits the line into two lines...each with it's own primer bulb...separate line to each motor...three primer bulbs prevents back siphoning. No problems yet...just make sure both motors get the same fuel:eek:il mix.
 

Home Cookin'

Fleet Admiral
Joined
May 26, 2009
Messages
9,715
Re: 2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

If you don't like simply switching the hose when you switch motors, I'd go with the T with shut-off valves. Or a 3 gallon tank for the troller.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,073
Re: 2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

You are only going to run one motor at a time right? Just switch the fuel line over. Both have quick connects right? The other method is not worth the hassle and $.
 

merc20076

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 9, 2009
Messages
156
Re: 2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

Gas tank in the front, that would be a good possibility since there is lot of space underneath but is my Lark40HP will have a hard time receiveing is gas? I own a 14' and a 12' fuel hose is much more expensive. Still have a couple of weeks to think, I am working on the motor. To start my fishing season in 2 weeks, I have my SIB!
 

F_R

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jul 7, 2006
Messages
28,226
Re: 2 motors, 1 fuel tank: Possible?

Fuel line length is not a problem. Consider the pounding anything you put up front gets, though. How 'bout mid-ship?
 
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