Fuel Tank

[TheViking]

I replaced the original 40hp Tohatsu outboard with a 90hp Yamaha 2 stroke on a 17' Mirrocraft fishing boat. The boat came with a plastic 9 gallon gas tank. I'd like to run a bigger tank but I can't decide between a portable tank or mounting something more permanent and adding a filler neck. It seems like a portable 12 or 17 gallon unit would be very difficult (heavy) to move in and out of the boat when filling. There is a large area under the splash well where I could mount a tank. Does anybody have thoughts on a good size, type, and mounting configuration?

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Fuel Tank

Depends on too many variables to give firm advice.<br /><br />For example - your fuel consumption, your boat use, your ease of refilling, your mooring (can thieves get to it easily?}, your personal health (can you lug fuel?), the gear you carry in the boat (this will affect storage space and hence optimum tank size).<br /><br />Doesn't help much, does it? Sorry. <br /><br />I run two portable tanks and switch lines as need arises. And I can carry either of them for refilling.

 

[waterone1@aol.com]

Re: Fuel Tank

Just my 2 cents worth: Once you get into a larger permanent tank, then you have plumbing issues, and you need a way to monitor remaining fuel (remote gas gauge). Along with that comes grounding issues, vent issues, etc. I would opt for two smaller portable tanks with quick disconnects. When the built-in gauge says it's getting low, you pick it up to check, when it is low, you switch to the other tank. If you have a fishing buddy or friend with you they can always carry the other tank. The last thought....with portable tanks you don't have to take the boat with you to refill, just throw the tanks in the back of the car/truck.

 

[AndyL]

Re: Fuel Tank

Just another thought.. Uprating from a 40hp to 90hp would have been a fair increase in weight on stern of the boat, add to that a 17gallon tank probably adds another 140+ pounds to the back of the boat, you may be getting into a nasty trim condition.

 

[TheViking]

Re: Fuel Tank

It sounds like running two tanks may be the easiest solution. I already have a 9 gallon as mentioned so I'll just add another. <br /><br />What's the best way to secure portable tanks so they don't bounce around when the boat is moving?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Fuel Tank

Secure cleats to the floor and run nylon straps over the tanks. Just like the batteries are mounted.