Can I plug this hole? :/

[btaylor507]

On my outboard gas tank, which is the older pressure system, there is a hole by the handle that seems to be letting all the pressure out of the tank. If I take my finger and plug the hole the motor purrs like a kitten, take it off, and it stalls out. It is a factory hole and it looks like some sort of valve is supposed to go there. Not sure what to do..can I just plug it?

Motor - 1957 Evinrude FastWin 18hp

 

[randysd]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

i would try a new cork gasket on the main tank first and then go from there. If that dosnt work try a new gasket on the fill tank cap.

 

[freddyray21]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

It is not a factory hole. I have a tank like it where someone drilled it out and put a schraeder valve in it. I would take the right size bolt and nut and plug it that way using rubber washers or jb weld it.

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

So if I plug this its not going to explode? It seems like its a pressure release or something. When I took the tank apart to inspect the inside I took the pump apart and put if back together, just thinking maybe a spring or something fell out. There is also a little metal disc that is near this "hole" that looks like it should have a spring or something holding it. Overall the motor runs great and the tank pumps up and keeps pressure.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

it sounds like that is where the pump up button use to be. there has to be pressure or the motor will not run. the motor pumps air into the tank, to force gas to the motor.

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

The pump up button is still on the tank and works great. Its a hole about the size of a pencil eraser on the same side, pointing in the same direction as the fuel and air lines. Looks like it supposed to be there but by the way it lets out all the tank pressure I don't think its right.

 

[F_R]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

That hole on the side of the housing is the pressure relief valve hole!!! The pressure relief valve limits the amount of pressure that can develop in the tank. Don't even think about plugging it!! Amazing, people worry about these things blowing up, then tamper with the safety valve. Instead, take it apart and replace the relief valve rubber disc. It is the rubber disc and washer with a spring behind it.

You mention another disc. That would be the 3/8" diameter metal disc that just lays in there? That is the pump outlet valve. The primer pump won't work if you leave it out.

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

F_R you just saved my life, Thank you. I was going to plug this hole but I said to myself I'll wait a few days to see what other people have to say. GOOD THING I DID! So is this rubber disc,washer and spring something I can buy @ napa or do I have to special order this from somewhere? Also is there any diagrams on how this is supposed to go back together? I'm a boating newbie and I greatly appreciate all the info I received from you guys. Thanks again!

 

[btaylor507]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

or maybe buy a different pressure release valve that would work in that size hole?

 

[samo_ott]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

Read this thread, it will help you a lot:

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=245788&highlight=mr.+stuart

 

[F_R]

Re: Can I plug this hole? :/

NAPA wont have these. See a dealer or go to www.aomci.org and place a free want ad on their Webvertize classified ad page.