Batteries And Gas Tanks - Too Close

[hap777]

PLEASE HELP. I'm a rookie to all this.

Should I keep gas tank vent closed or open when transporting the boat with gas in the metal external boat tank? I have 2 tanks right next to each other which are right next (3“ away) from the battery (in a battery box with no top) The 2 metal gas tanks are separated by a piece of wood. Is that safe?

What about when I’m running the boat? Should the valve be open or closed?

thank you

 

[dwco5051]

Vent should be open when running the boat. If not the tank will create a vacuum as the gas level drops that the fuel pump can not overcome and the motor will quit.

 

[FunInDuhSun]

I say yes, that is safe. on my 14’ tinny the battery is on one side of the outboard and gas tank on the other with no partition.
If gas tanks are not in an enclosed space, leave the vents open- just a little. The idea is to prevent any pressure from building up due to warming.

 

[GA_Boater]

hap777 Moved this from an old thread.

Open the vent when ready to start the motor and close it when done for the day. Keep the spare tank vent closed when not in use, even when empty. The wood tank separator isn't a problem.

The battery being close to the tanks shouldn't be an issue if the battery cables are tight and in good condition. Is there room to move the battery further away for a just in case? A battery box with a top might be a wise investment for peace of mind no matter how close the tank and battery are.

 

[roscoe]

Battery must be secured in place, and terminals must be covered.
Easiest way to do both is with a covered battery box.

 

[robert graham]

And snug those battery terminal bolts down good and tight.....and keep battery inside a plastic battery box with a lid and a strap to hold it in place....

 

[Texasmark]

hap777 Moved this from an old thread.

Open the vent when ready to start the motor and close it when done for the day. Keep the spare tank vent closed when not in use, even when empty. The wood tank separator isn't a problem.

The battery being close to the tanks shouldn't be an issue if the battery cables are tight and in good condition. Is there room to move the battery further away for a just in case? A battery box with a top might be a wise investment for peace of mind no matter how close the tank and battery are.

+1.........