Permanent. fuel tank???

[SouthernmanSC]

I have a 1974 Thundercraft 15 ft. trihull and was wondering if it would be a good idea to install a permanent fuel tank under the cuddy hole at the stern end and vent it outside the hull...I would like to stow my battery there too instead of out in the open and is afraid too now with the way a portable gas tank vents and hate to leave it on the outside too...Looks kinda crappy....Your imput is appreciated...Thanks...

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: Permanent. fuel tank???

I owned an old Scott boat some years ago that had an arrangement exactly like you're talking about. A 20Gal tank [long and narrow] and a battery. It was uncluttered and neat, but it will add to the stern weight if your boat tends to be stern-heavy. Just be sure the tank is vented well to the outside away from the battery and the area is well ventilated. I think there may be a regulation about having the tank and the battery in the same compartment, but this setup dosn't seem to fit the description covered. Someone else may know more about it.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Permanent. fuel tank???

You didn't tell us what how big a motor you have or what kind of boating that you do. For example if you have a 40 hp and typically go out for only a few hours the portable 6 gal tank is hard to beat. If you have an old 115 hp and typically run flat out all day you might want the permanent tank.<br /><br />I had a 19' years ago with a 140 hp. I had three 6 gal tanks. I only took along what I thought I would use for the day (plus ample reserve). That way I was taking up space only for what I needed.<br /><br />There is no regulation in Florida that I know of that tells you where to put fuel tank or battery. No safety issues that I can think of either.

 

[Valv]

Re: Permanent. fuel tank???

You can install a bow mount tank, they are not portable, you'll need to add fill and vent hoses to hull.<br /><br />I know somebody that sells new bow tanks, shaped to fit into front cavity.<br /><br />Beware if you add too much weight on bow, it might become too heavy. I would leave battery on stern, maybe under one of these battery tray/covers