Yacht Tanks: Safety Tips for Boaters

Recreational Boats are beautiful vessels that offer a great addition to your lifestyle. They also come with some risks, however. In this article, we'll discuss the safety precautions boat owners should take before refueling their tanks and embarking on the next boating adventure.

Key Safety Tips

Here are a few safety tips we suggest you should follow.

Before fueling your boat

Unless it is an emergency, never fuel at night. If you need to refuel after dark, only use electric lights. Try to refuel away from the ocean or on a commercial fueling ramp to safeguard the water environment, and always make sure you have the required lights visible.

Before fueling your boat, ensure you have the right equipment. This includes fuel lines, hoses, and an emergency flare kit. If you don't have these items, it's best to call in advance to see if they're available at the fuel dock you intend to use.

Keep to the recommended fuel tank capacity

It is imperative that you never fill the tank of your boat to a level that is more than ninety percent full. This allows the gas to expand, removing any risk of it exceeding its capacity and spilling over. Additionally, make sure that the fuel tank's air vents, as well as any valves that link to it, are open.

Conversely, you should also ensure that you load enough fuel for your journey. A good rule of thumb is the 'rule of three,' which can be applied to many domains, including yachting. The basic principle is that boat needs to have enough fuel to cover the distance you want to travel, plus some extra.

So, for example, if you want to travel 200 miles, you'll need to carry enough fuel for 300 miles; 100 for the outbound journey, 100 for the journey back, and an extra third to cover any possible contingencies which may arise.

While fueling

Maintaining constant contact between the nozzle of the fuel-pump line and the tank's opening will prevent a static spark from occurring. Filling the tank should be done carefully and with care to prevent fuel from seeping into the boat's bilge or into the water.

Take great care not to fill the tank above its capacity, especially while working with diesel fuel.

After fueling

Once you've filled your tank, you want to make sure that there aren't any leaks. This means checking the gas cap and making sure it's secure.

If you use a portable pump, make sure that you shut off the flow of air to prevent the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.

You can clean up fuel spills quickly by covering them with absorbent material such as newspaper. Never pour the fuel directly onto the ground, as it could cause a fire. Instead, put down absorbents, such as kitty litter, sand, or gravel.

Fueling portable fuel tanks

To maintain a good footing, always replenish your portable gasoline canisters on the pavement or dock. While the bed of your vehicle or your boat's deck may appear sturdy, static electricity can accumulate and ignite.

If you plan to store fuel aboard your vessel, choose containers made from corrosion-resistant materials. These include stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic. Avoid storing fuel in wooden boxes, as this can lead to rot.

Fueling PWCs

The most common mistake boaters make when fueling their PWC (small Personal Water Crafts) is forgetting about the dangers of spilled fuel. When refueling a PWC, you'll be closer to the waterline than in larger boats, so it's particularly important to keep this in mind.

If possible, tie your PWC off to prevent it from drifting away while filling the tank. Also, be sure there are no obstructions nearby before starting the pump.

Common Fuel Tank Related Issues

Below is a list of issues that might arise.

Loose or pinched fuel lines

If you notice water leaking out of the bilge vents while underway, it could mean that there is a problem with your fuel lines. These lines connect the fuel tank to the carburetor and injectors. They must be kept free from obstructions such as dirt, debris, corrosion, and leaks.

Over time, the connections can become loose or pinched due to vibration caused by rough seas or improper maintenance. This can lead to fuel leakage and even damage to the engine.

Air bents or exhaust blocked

Your boat gas tank requires adequate venting for proper combustion of fuel. If there is no airflow into the gas tank, it will not ignite properly. This might result in a number of issues, including insufficient combustion, decreased performance, and possibly even damage to the engine.

Check that all the gas tank vents remain open and that there are no blockages. Make sure that the exhaust pipe has been removed from the muffler if you have one installed. You should also check the intake hose for blockage.

Blocked engine exhaust is another possible cause of a boat not starting, especially if you've just taken it out of storage. Rodents often nest inside marine engine exhaust systems during cold weather, blocking the opening and preventing the engine from starting.

In addition, there is usually a small hole where the exhaust goes up through the floorboards. Remove any debris or nesting material and ensure that the hole is free-flowing.

Water or dirt in the fuel system

The boat fuel system is one of the most important components of a vessel. Without proper maintenance, it could lead to major problems, such as a loss of power or even damage to the engine itself.

As the engine runs, it creates heat inside the fuel system, which helps keep the fuel liquid.

However, the system can become clogged with debris, including water and sediment, over time. This can cause significant safety issues down the line if not addressed.

If you notice water or dirt accumulating in the fuel system, drain it out immediately. This will help clear away the debris and allow the engine to run normally again. Once the system is drained, replace the fuel filter. Then, fill up the tank with clean fuel.

Choke linkage bent

If the choke linkage in a boat engine is bent or dinged, the engine may not function correctly. You should check the choke linkage every month or so because it tends to wear down over time.

If the bend is small enough, you can usually adjust it with a hammer or pliers; however, if the bend is large, you'll probably need to replace the entire choke linkage. An automatic choke won't work properly if the linkage isn't straight.

If your boat's engine had an auto choke, it might have gone out of adjustment and need correction.

Weak ignition condenser

The ignition coil and condenser are the heart of your boat engine. These components are responsible for starting your cylinders' fuel/air mixture. They also keep the spark plug electrodes clean. Over time, these parts become worn and require replacement. A worn ignition coil or condenser could cause your boat to fail to start.

Summing Up

Refueling your boat is key as you continue on your water-bound adventures. By following a few simple safety tips, you can keep your boat operating smoothly over long distances, enjoying the freedom of the open water for many years to come.

However, there are also times when you might need assistance moving your boat rapidly over long distances.

If this is the case, you can rely on A-1 Auto Transport for all of your boat transportation needs. We have the competence and knowledge to bring your vessel to its destination safely and on schedule. For a free quote, contact us now!