Fuel tank venting?

MarvinGabriel

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
May 5, 2020
Messages
83
So I was out today, with a merc 9.9 4 stroke that wouldn’t stay running. I noticed that the bulb needed to be repumped, and saw that hoses seemed to be collapsing before the fuel pump. I have never used this particular tank before and am confused as to whether or not the tank vents! It’s an Easterner 3 gallon tank, and I THINK that the vent is that little metal knob on the fuel gauge/filler cap. It doesn’t seem to turn, but looks like a vent. Am I correct? I tried to turn it with pliars after I got home, and snapped off the clear plastic. So anyway, new tank no matter what. I’m just wondering if that’s what the issue was, before I start tearing into the fuel system.
 

GA_Boater

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
May 24, 2011
Messages
49,038
An easy way to see if the tank has a venting problem is to loosen the cap when the hoses seem collapsed or the motor stops.
 

Grub54891

Admiral
Joined
Jun 17, 2012
Messages
6,148
That should be the vent, If the tank is new, bring it back and exchange it. it broke on the first use.
 

MarvinGabriel

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
May 5, 2020
Messages
83
That should be the vent, If the tank is new, bring it back and exchange it. it broke on the first use.
Thanks. I’ve just never seen a vent like that before. It’s not a new tank. Just the first time I’ve used it. I got it in an outboard deal, but it’s been sitting for quite awhile. I assume that metal knob is supposed to turn?
 

Grub54891

Admiral
Joined
Jun 17, 2012
Messages
6,148
Thanks. I’ve just never seen a vent like that before. It’s not a new tank. Just the first time I’ve used it. I got it in an outboard deal, but it’s been sitting for quite awhile. I assume that metal knob is supposed to turn?
I would think so. A pic would help.
 
Top