O/B Fuel Line Length

[esobofh]

Folks,

I'm awaiting the arrival of a new outboard motor for my 14' aluminum utility. It's significantly heavier than the motor I have now, and I'm a heavy guy. I'm looking at shifting some weight in the boat by putting the fuel tank up front in the bow, and moving the battery as well.

Can anyone tell me if there is a restriction on fuel line length? if I have 12' of fuel line connecting my outboard to the tank, will there be any problems? The owners manual for the outboard says the line must be a minimum 5/16" inside diameter, but doesn't mention anything about length.. any examples from your own experience would be useful.

Also, in a line that long, where should I locate the squeeze bulb?

thanks!!

 

[mrdancer]

Re: O/B Fuel Line Length

I know several folks that have put the tank up front and have not had any problems. Ideally, the bulb would be near the tank, to suck up fuel quickly and get it sent through the line (since liquid is non-compressible), but theoretically it should work anywhere in the line.

I've seen a built-in fuel tank that was over 25 feet from the motor, and the fuel pump in the motor itself was sufficient to keep the fuel flowing (this is on a much larger outboard).

 

[cwhite6]

Re: O/B Fuel Line Length

I have a 16' Carolina Skiff (basically fiberglass jon boat). My gas tank is in the front of the boat with a fuel line ran back to the engine. The bulb is back by the motor. Also, put in a simple turn valve in the fuel line after the bulb and before the motor. Gives you an extra piece of mine seeing the fuel is shut off to the motor. I use mine to turn off the fuel so I can run the gas out of the motor before letting the boat sit for a few weeks. That way I do not have gas sitting in the carbs that could gum it up.

 

[esobofh]

Re: O/B Fuel Line Length

Thanks guys.. sounds like I'm good to go!!